What does "crowning" indicate during childbirth?

Crowning occurs when the baby's head is visible at the vaginal opening during childbirth. This is a critical sign that indicates delivery is imminent, meaning that the baby is about to be born very soon. When crowning is observed, it typically signals that the contractions are strong and effective, and there is little time to prepare for the actual delivery process. This is an important moment for first responders and healthcare providers, as immediate assistance may be needed to support the delivery and ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.

The other options do not accurately reflect the significance of crowning. The onset of labor refers to the beginning stages of childbirth, which occurs before crowning. The need for emergency intervention is not a direct implication of crowning under typical circumstances; while complications can arise during delivery, crowning itself signals that the birth process is well underway. Lastly, the presence of meconium is a different concern and relates to the baby's first stool being present, which can indicate potential complications but does not directly relate to the state of crowning. Therefore, the clear indicator of "delivery is imminent" aligns perfectly with the definition of crowning.