transverse lie

(transverse presentation, transverse position) A position of the baby which is sideways, lying horizontal across the uterus, rather than vertical. Ideally for labor, the baby is positioned head-down, facing the mother's back, with the chin tucked to its chest, and the back of the head ready to enter the pelvis (cephalic presentation). Most babies settle into this position in the 32-36 weeks. Although many babies are sideways early in pregnancy, few stay this way when labor begins. If the baby is in this position during the 37 weeks, external cephalic version, a procedure to move the baby into a head-down position by putting pressure on the mother's abdomen, may be conducted. If the procedure is not successful, or if the baby's position does not change, the baby may be born by cesarean section (C-section).