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Alt Text: breech baby causes turning techniques ECV delivery options pregnancy India Dr Mamta Agrawal BestGyno
A breech baby is one who is positioned with the buttocks or feet facing downward instead of the head. This position is common in early pregnancy but should ideally correct by 34–36 weeks. As a Gynaecologist with 27+ years of experience, I reassure patients that a breech position is manageable and, in many cases, can be corrected with safe medical and non-medical techniques.
This 2025 guide explains types of breech position, causes, turning techniques like ECV, exercises, safety, risks, delivery options, and when to seek medical attention.
What Is a Breech Baby?
In a normal pregnancy, the baby should be in the head-down (cephalic) position by late third trimester. In breech position, the baby’s head is up and the pelvis or feet are downward.
Types of Breech Presentation
- Frank Breech: Baby’s buttocks down, legs stretched upward
- Complete Breech: Legs folded, baby sitting cross-legged
- Footling Breech: One or both feet downward
Why Does Breech Position Happen?
Common reasons include:
- Low amniotic fluid
- Excess amniotic fluid
- Multiple pregnancy (twins)
- Uterine abnormalities
- Placenta previa
- Preterm pregnancy
- Previous breech baby
Often, no cause is found — and that is completely normal.
How Is Breech Baby Diagnosed?
A breech position may be suspected by abdominal examination but is confirmed through:
- Ultrasound
- Doppler assessment
- Late pregnancy scans
Can a Breech Baby Turn Head-Down Naturally?
Yes. Many babies turn on their own by 36–37 weeks. After that, spontaneous turning becomes less likely but still possible.
Safe Ways to Turn a Breech Baby
1. External Cephalic Version (ECV)
The most effective medical method. A trained obstetrician gently turns the baby externally using hands on the abdomen.
Best time: 36–37 weeks
Success rate: 50–65%
Safe when done in hospital with fetal monitoring.
2. Breech Tilt Exercise
Lie with hips elevated on pillows for 10–15 minutes. Helps babies with flexible position shift down.
3. Forward-Leaning Inversion
Kneel on a bed and lean forward onto your hands (supervised). Improves pelvic alignment.
4. Side-Lying Release
Relaxes pelvic muscles and helps baby move into optimal position.
Note: Avoid any extreme or unproven methods from the internet.
When ECV Is Not Recommended
- Placenta previa
- Low amniotic fluid
- Uterine abnormalities
- Baby’s head not flexed
- Fetal distress
Delivery Options for Breech Baby
1. Planned Cesarean Section (Most Common)
Recommended for most cases to reduce risks.
2. Vaginal Breech Delivery (Selective Cases)
Possible only when:
- Frank breech position
- Normal pelvis
- Adequate amniotic fluid
- Experienced doctor available
Risks of Breech Delivery
Possible risks include:
- Cord prolapse
- Birth trauma
- Fetal distress
When to Seek Immediate Help?
- Sudden abdominal pain
- Decreased fetal movement
- Vaginal bleeding
- Water breaking
- Strong contractions before 37 weeks
WHO Recommendations for Breech Pregnancy
- Early identification through ultrasound
- Offer ECV at 36–37 weeks
- Counselling on risks & delivery options
- Perform breech births in well-equipped centres
Authoritative External Links
Internal Links (Correct & Working Only)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can a breech baby turn at 38 weeks?
It is rare but possible. ECV offers the best chance.
2. Is ECV painful?
It may feel uncomfortable but is generally safe and quick.
3. Can exercises alone turn a breech baby?
They may help in some cases but do not replace medical care.
4. Is vaginal breech delivery safe?
Only under strict selection criteria and with experienced doctors.
5. Will breech position affect future pregnancies?
No. Most future pregnancies have normal cephalic positions.
