However, the female pelvis still must accommodate for bipedal locomotion which is what creates the challenges for obstructed labor. The brain size of humans has also increased as the species has evolved, resulting in a larger head of the fetus that must exit the womb. This requires human infants to be born less developed when compared to other species. The bones of the skull are not yet fused when a human infant is born in order to prevent the head from becoming too large to exit the womb. However, the head of the fetus is still large and poses the possibility for obstructed labor. Diagnosis
Obstructed labour is usually diagnosed based on physical examination. Ultrasound can be used to predict malpresentation of the fetus. In examination of the cervix once labor has begun, all examinations are compared to regular cervical assessments. The comparison between the average cervical assessment and the current state of the mother allows for a diagnosis of obstructed labor. An increasingly long time in labor also indicates a mechanical issue that is preventing the fetus from exiting the womb. Prevention
Access to proper health services can reduce the prevalence of obstructed labor. Less developed areas have inadequate health services to attend to obstructed labor, resulting in a higher prevalence among less developed area. Improving nutrition of female, both before and during pregnancy, is important for reducing the risk of obstructive labor.
Midline cervical clefts are a rare congenital anomaly resulting from incomplete fusion during embryogenesis of the first and second branchial arches in the ventral midline of the neck. The condition presents as a midline cutaneous defect of the anterior neck with a skin projection or sinus, or as a subcutaneous erythematous fibrous cord. Surgical excision is the preferred treatment. See also
Accessory tragus
List of cutaneous conditions


== References ==