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2 Apr 2024

Understanding Breech Presentation

Understanding Breech Presentation
During pregnancy, the ideal position for a baby to be born is head down, with their head towards the birth canal.
However, in some cases, babies may assume a different position, known as breech presentation.
This means that the baby's buttocks or feet are positioned to come out first during delivery instead of their head.
Here's a closer look at what it means to have a breech baby:
Types of Breech Presentation
  • Frank Breech: In this position, the baby's buttocks are aimed towards the birth canal, with their legs extending straight up towards their head.
  • Complete Breech: Here, the baby's buttocks are down, and their knees are bent so that their feet are near their buttocks.
  • Footling Breech: This is when one or both of the baby's feet are positioned to come out first.
Causes of Breech Presentation
The exact cause of breech presentation is not always known, but there are several factors that may increase the likelihood:
  • Prematurity: Breech presentation is more common in premature babies as they may not have had enough time to settle into the head-down position.
  • Multiple Pregnancies: If you are carrying twins or more, there is a higher chance that one or more babies may be in a breech position.
  • Uterine Abnormalities: Certain uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids or an abnormally shaped uterus, can impact the baby's position.
  • Too Little Amniotic Fluid: A lower amount of amniotic fluid can restrict the baby's movements and increase the likelihood of breech presentation.
Diagnosing Breech Presentation
Your healthcare provider will typically diagnose a breech presentation during a prenatal check-up.
They will feel your abdomen to determine the position of your baby.
If a breech presentation is suspected, an ultrasound may be recommended to confirm the position.
Options and Considerations
  • Natural Correction: In some cases, babies can spontaneously turn into the head-down position on their own before labor begins. This is more likely to occur in the earlier stages of pregnancy.
  • External Cephalic Version (ECV): This procedure involves your healthcare provider applying gentle pressure on your abdomen to manually turn the baby into the head-down position. ECV is typically performed after 36 weeks of pregnancy and is successful in many cases.
  • Delivery Options: Depending on the specific circumstances, your healthcare provider will discuss the available delivery options. Vaginal breech birth can be an option in certain situations, but it requires a skilled healthcare team experienced in managing breech deliveries. In many cases, a cesarean section may be recommended for the safety of both the baby and the mother.
Dive deeper
A
Ash
15 Jun 2023

Baby done turned around son u better get some act right I don't know nothing about breech.

3 comments
M
Makayla
Get in some water!! Go swimming that helped me quickly
27 Mar 2024

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A
Ash
I'm definitely try that he been head down all this time and Wana switch up not today son
27 Mar 2024

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N
Nicole
13 Jul 2022

Soo we found out today babygirl is breech right now. I'm only 22 weeks so I'm hoping she turns before delivery even though I have to have a planned c section anyways! Anyone with breech knowledge/experience feel free to give me advice/opinions 🥰

2 comments
t
toy
She has plenty of time to turn.
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mayra
My baby turned like weeks before but I mean if your having a c section it’s ok mama don’t stress
27 Mar 2024

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