Which statement correctly describes the left lateral decubitus position in late pregnancy management?

Which statement correctly describes the left lateral decubitus position in late pregnancy management?

• A. It increases aortocaval compression.
• B. It relieves aortocaval compression.
• C. It has no effect on maternal hemodynamics.
• D. It worsens fetal oxygenation.

Answer: (B)

In late pregnancy the enlarged uterus can press on the aorta and the inferior vena cava when the mother lies on her back, reducing venous return to the heart and uteroplacental blood flow. This aortocaval compression lowers maternal cardiac output and can decrease fetal oxygen delivery. Lying on the left side shifts the uterus away from these vessels, relieving the compression, increasing venous return and cardiac output, and improving placental perfusion and fetal oxygenation. If staying fully on the left side isn’t comfortable, a mild left tilt with a wedge under the right hip can achieve the same relief.

In late pregnancy the enlarged uterus can press on the aorta and the inferior vena cava when the mother lies on her back, reducing venous return to the heart and uteroplacental blood flow. This aortocaval compression lowers maternal cardiac output and can decrease fetal oxygen delivery. Lying on the left side shifts the uterus away from these vessels, relieving the compression, increasing venous return and cardiac output, and improving placental perfusion and fetal oxygenation. If staying fully on the left side isn’t comfortable, a mild left tilt with a wedge under the right hip can achieve the same relief.