Which fetal condition is a risk factor for breech presentation?

Breech presentation occurs when the fetus is positioned feet or buttocks first in the uterus, which can complicate delivery. Neurologic conditions, particularly those that affect muscle tone and fetal movement, are significant risk factors for breech presentation. Conditions such as anencephaly can lead to abnormal muscle tone and decreased fetal movement, which may prevent the fetus from rotating to the head-down position.

While other fetal conditions, such as cardiac anomalies, chromosomal abnormalities, and diaphragmatic hernia, can also be associated with intrauterine growth restriction or abnormal fetal presentation, they are not as directly linked to the failure of the fetus to engage in a cephalic position as neurologic conditions. Neurologic issues specifically impair the fetus's ability to maneuver and change position effectively, leading to an increased likelihood of breech presentation. Thus, the presence of a severe neurologic condition like anencephaly stands out as a prominent risk factor for breech position.