What is the purpose of Leopold's Maneuvers?

Leopold's Maneuvers serve a foundational role in assessing the fetal presentation and position during pregnancy. These maneuvers consist of a series of four specific palpation techniques performed by the caregiver on the pregnant abdomen. By conducting these maneuvers, practitioners can identify the location of the fetal back, limbs, and the fetal head, allowing for an understanding of how the fetus is positioned within the uterus.

Understanding fetal position is crucial for planning the management of labor and delivery. Knowing whether the fetus is in a head-down (vertex) position or in a breech position can assist healthcare providers in making informed decisions about the birth process. This information directly affects the approach to delivery, including whether vaginal birth is feasible or if interventions might be necessary. Therefore, the primary purpose of Leopold's Maneuvers is accurately to determine fetal presentation and position, making the correct answer clear.