asynclitism
noun
asyn·clit·ism
(ˈ)ā-ˈsin-klə-ˌtiz-əm, -ˈsiŋ- 
: presentation of the fetal head during childbirth with the axis oriented obliquely to the axial planes of the pelvis
Back pain or prolonged active labor is sometimes caused by a subtle malposition called asynclitism, in which the baby's head is tilted and the top of it isn't centered on the cervix.—
Penny Simkin et al., Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide, 4th edition
Penny Simkin et al., Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide, 4th edition
asynclitic
adjective
asynclitic babies
an asynclitic position
Cite this Entry
“Asynclitism.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/asynclitism. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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