Leopold Maneuvers are systematic abdominal palpations performed in late pregnancy to assess fetal layout and locate the fetal heart tone site.
The Four Maneuvers
- 1. Fundal Grip: Palpating the upper abdomen to determine fetal presentation (head vs buttocks).
- 2. Umbilical/Lateral Grip: Palpating the sides of the abdomen to locate the fetal back and extremities.
- 3. Pawlik's Grip: Placing thumb and fingers of one hand above symphysis pubis to determine engagement.
- 4. Pelvic Grip: Palpating with both hands facing the mother's feet to determine the fetal attitude/head flexion.
