Fetal station is determined by the anatomic relationship of the presenting part of the fetus (typically the head) with the maternal ischial spines. Station is measured in centimeters from -5 to +5, where -5 is above the ischial spines and +5 is below them. If the presenting part of the fetus is palpated to be 2 inches above the maternal ischial spines, it is documented as -2 station. The fetus is not at +5, +2, or -5 station.