Role of ultrasound on the labor ward

Ultrasound is an important investigational tool used in the antenatal period, and is increasingly being used in labor and the peripartum period. Research over the past two decades has focused on establishing objective ultrasound parameters to define fetal gestational age/estimated fetal weight in labor, to identify fetuses at risk of compromise in labor, to predict mode of delivery and to enhance the safety of operative deliveries. This review outlines the role of these various uses of ultrasound and explores whether there may be a role for routine use of ultrasound in the management of labor and delivery.