Pregnancy is a time filled with anticipation, excitement, and often, a bit of uncertainty. For many expectant parents, one of the biggest concerns comes as they approach the final weeks of pregnancy and learn that their baby is in a breech position. Although this situation can be concerning, there are many ways to encourage your baby to turn naturally and methods to address breech presentations when necessary. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of breech positions, why it happens, and how to respond if your baby is in a breech position.
What Is a Breech Baby?
A breech baby refers to a fetus that is positioned with its bottom or feet toward the birth canal rather than the head. Ideally, babies are positioned head down in the final weeks of pregnancy, ready for a smooth delivery. However, in some cases, the baby may be in a breech position as the due date approaches. It’s important to note that breech presentations occur in about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies, and most babies naturally turn head-down before labor begins.
There are a few different types of breech positions, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Frank breech: The baby’s bottom is positioned down with the legs extended upward toward the face, almost like they are sitting in a “V” position.
- Complete breech: The baby’s legs are crossed with the feet near their bottom, in a more fetal-like position.
- Footling breech: One or both of the baby’s feet are positioned down near the birth canal.
- Transverse lie: In this case, the baby is lying sideways across the uterus, with the shoulder near the birth canal. This is not technically a breech position but may be considered when discussing abnormal fetal positioning.
It’s important to note that while breech babies are a concern, they don’t automatically require a cesarean section. Many breech babies turn naturally on their own, especially before the 36-week mark.
Why Does a Baby End Up Breech?
In most cases, the exact cause of a breech presentation is unknown. However, certain factors may increase the likelihood of a baby being in a breech position. These include:
- Multiple pregnancies: If you’re expecting twins, triplets, or more, there’s a higher chance that at least one baby may be breech.
- Prematurity: Babies born prematurely have less time to rotate into the head-down position.
- Excessive amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios): When there is too much fluid in the uterus, the baby may have more space to move around, potentially leading to breech positioning.
- Abnormalities in the uterus or placenta: Uterine anomalies such as fibroids, an abnormally shaped uterus, or issues with the placenta can restrict the baby’s ability to move and result in breech positioning.
- Previous breech pregnancies: Women who have had a breech baby in a prior pregnancy are more likely to have another breech pregnancy.
- Advanced maternal age: Women over the age of 35 are at a slightly higher risk of having a breech baby.
How to Know if Your Baby Is Breech
Most healthcare providers can identify if a baby is breech through routine prenatal visits. They may check the baby’s position through a physical exam or ultrasound. By the time you’re around 30-34 weeks pregnant, your provider will begin to assess the baby’s position to ensure that it is head-down.
If your baby is breech, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound to confirm the position and assess the baby’s size, growth, and overall health. While a breech baby may be identified early in pregnancy, many babies will turn naturally as labor approaches, so it’s not always a cause for immediate concern.
Methods to Encourage a Breech Baby to Turn
In many cases, a breech baby will naturally turn head-down before the due date. However, if your baby is still breech in the late second trimester or early third trimester, there are several techniques that may encourage them to move into a better position. Here are some commonly recommended methods:
1. External Cephalic Version (ECV)
External Cephalic Version is a procedure performed by a skilled healthcare provider where gentle pressure is applied to the abdomen to try and turn the baby. This is typically done in a hospital setting between 36-37 weeks of pregnancy. It’s generally safe, though it carries some risks, such as the possibility of labor starting or the baby’s heart rate dropping. Your healthcare provider will assess the risks and benefits based on your specific situation before recommending this option.
2. Spinning Babies Techniques
Spinning Babies is a popular method that includes a series of exercises and positions designed to encourage the baby to turn naturally. These exercises focus on creating more space in the uterus, helping the baby move from the breech position to a head-down position. Some common techniques include:
- Forward-leaning inversions: This exercise involves positioning your body in a way that encourages the baby to turn. You lean forward with your hands and knees on the floor, creating space for the baby to move.
- The pelvic tilt: Another gentle movement where you place your knees and hands on the ground while tilting your pelvis upward.
- Rebozo technique: A traditional Mexican technique using a shawl or cloth to gently shift the baby’s position by creating a rocking motion.
These exercises should be performed under the guidance of a trained professional, like a chiropractor or midwife, to ensure that they’re done safely.
3. Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning a small amount of an herb called mugwort near specific points on the body. The goal of this technique is to stimulate the baby to turn, particularly when applied to the pinky toe area. Some studies have suggested that moxibustion may be effective in turning breech babies, but it’s important to work with a trained professional to try this approach safely.
4. Maternal Positioning and Exercise
Changing your body position throughout the day can encourage the baby to move. Some recommended positions include:
- Kneeling and leaning forward: Positioning your body so that you’re on your hands and knees or in a hands-and-knees stance can help create more room in the uterus for the baby to move.
- Using an exercise ball: Sitting on an exercise ball and gently moving your hips can also help the baby shift into a more optimal position.
It’s important to listen to your body and only try what feels comfortable. Don’t force any movements, and consult with your provider before beginning any new exercises.
When Cesarean May Be Necessary
While many breech babies can be safely delivered vaginally with the proper support and preparation, there are situations where a cesarean section may be recommended. For example, if the baby is in a footling breech position (with one or both feet down), a cesarean is often preferred for safety. Additionally, if the baby is not able to be turned, or if there are other complications (such as a low placenta or maternal health concerns), a cesarean delivery may be the safest option for both mother and baby.
Conclusion
While having a breech baby can understandably be worrying, it’s important to remember that many babies do turn on their own as the due date approaches. In the meantime, there are several techniques and approaches you can try to encourage the baby to move into the head-down position. Always consult with your healthcare provider before attempting any techniques, and keep in mind that every pregnancy is unique. Trust your instincts, work closely with your doctor or midwife, and know that the right support is available to help guide you through this stage of pregnancy.
