Which type of pelvis has rounded brim?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2022

Explanation

The Gynaecoid pelvis is the classic female pelvis, characterized by a rounded or slightly oval (transverse) pelvic inlet or brim.
This shape provides the most space and is considered the most suitable for a straightforward vaginal birth.
It features a wide subpubic arch (greater than 90 degrees), straight side walls, and blunt ischial spines, all of which facilitate the passage of the fetus.
Approximately 50% of women have a gynaecoid pelvis, making it the most common type.

Option B: The Android pelvis has a heart-shaped or triangular brim, not a rounded one.
Option C: The Anthropoid pelvis has an oval-shaped brim that is wider anteroposteriorly (front to back) than transversely.
Option D: The Platypelloid pelvis has a flattened, kidney-shaped brim that is wide transversely but short anteroposteriorly.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of female pelvic types based on brim shape as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Assessing the pelvic shape is a crucial part of antenatal care and labor management for nurses and midwives.
The shape of the pelvic inlet directly influences how the fetal head engages and descends through the birth canal.
Non-gynaecoid pelvic shapes (Android, Anthropoid, Platypelloid) are associated with a higher risk of labor dystocia (difficult labor), cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD), and the need for operative delivery (forceps, vacuum, or cesarean section).

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from obstetrics.
First, identify the core concept being tested: the classification of pelvic types.
Recall the four main types of pelvises described by Caldwell and Moloy: Gynaecoid, Android, Anthropoid, and Platypelloid.
Associate the key characteristic (shape of the brim) with each type.
The question asks for the pelvis with a 'rounded' brim. Recall that the Gynaecoid pelvis is the classic female type with a round, spacious inlet.
Evaluate the other options to confirm they are incorrect: Android is heart-shaped, Anthropoid is a vertical oval, and Platypelloid is a transverse oval (flat).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q15MdS9t9UFlj-mWrcAsWX

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 38-46

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 16-32

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