Breech Presentation: What Pregnant Mothers Need to Know

During pregnancy, most babies naturally position themselves head-down in preparation for birth. However, in some cases, the baby remains in a breech position, meaning the baby’s head is positioned upwards while the lower body is facing the birth canal. This condition is called breech presentation, and it can make vaginal delivery more challenging. Understanding the causes, signs, and solutions for breech presentation can help expectant mothers prepare for a safe birth.

Causes of Breech Presentation

Several factors can contribute to a baby being in a breech position:

1. Premature Birth – Babies born before full term (37 weeks) are more likely to be in a breech position since they may not have had enough time to turn.
2. Too Much or Too Little Amniotic Fluid – Excessive amniotic fluid allows too much movement, while too little fluid restricts movement, preventing the baby from flipping to the head-down position.
3. Uterine Abnormalities – Some women have an irregularly shaped uterus or uterine fibroids that limit the baby’s ability to move into the correct position.
4. Multiple Pregnancies – When a woman is carrying twins or more, there is less space for movement, increasing the likelihood of breech presentation.
5. Placenta Previa – If the placenta is positioned too low in the uterus, it can prevent the baby from turning.
6. Short Umbilical Cord – A short cord can limit the baby’s movement and prevent repositioning.

How to Detect Breech Presentation

Most breech presentations are diagnosed in the third trimester, typically after 32-36 weeks of pregnancy. Doctors can determine if the baby is in a breech position through:

• Physical Examination – The doctor can feel the baby’s position by gently pressing on the mother’s abdomen.
• Ultrasound – A more accurate way to confirm the baby’s position.
• Listening to the Baby’s Heartbeat – If the heartbeat is heard above the mother’s navel, it may indicate a breech position.

Types of Breech Presentation

There are three main types of breech presentation:

1. Frank Breech – The baby’s buttocks are facing the birth canal, while the legs are extended upward.
2. Complete Breech – The baby’s buttocks are down, with legs bent at the knees in a cross-legged position.
3. Footling Breech – One or both feet are positioned to descend first into the birth canal.

Can a Breech Baby Turn Before Birth?

In many cases, babies will naturally turn into the correct position before delivery. However, if the baby remains in a breech position close to the due date, doctors may suggest the following methods to encourage movement:

1. External Cephalic Version (ECV) – A medical procedure where the doctor applies gentle pressure on the mother’s abdomen to manually turn the baby into a head-down position. This procedure is usually done after 36 weeks of pregnancy.
2. Prenatal Exercises – Some recommended positions, such as the “bridge pose” or kneeling with the pelvis elevated, may encourage the baby to move.
3. Acupuncture and Moxibustion – Some traditional Chinese medicine techniques claim to help babies turn. However, always consult a doctor before trying alternative methods.

Delivery Options for Breech Babies

If a baby remains in a breech position until birth, doctors will evaluate the safest delivery method:

• Cesarean Section (C-Section) – In most cases, a C-section is recommended for breech babies to reduce risks for both the mother and child.
• Vaginal Breech Birth – In some cases, if the doctor determines that the baby’s size and position allow for a safe vaginal delivery, this may be an option. However, vaginal breech births require careful medical supervision.

Conclusion

Breech presentation is relatively common, especially before 36 weeks of pregnancy. While some babies naturally turn before birth, others may require medical assistance. Understanding the causes, detection methods, and treatment options can help expectant mothers make informed decisions for a safe delivery. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific pregnancy situation.