What is a breech presentation?

• A breech presentation is where your baby is lying bottom first or feet first in the uterus.
• In the early stages of pregnancy, this position is common.
• Between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy, most babies are lying head first, ready to be born.
• Three in every 100 (3%) babies are in a breech position at the end of pregnancy.
• Birthing a breech baby is more complicated than a baby who is in a head first position.

What are the breech positions?

Why are some babies breech?

• You have had more than one pregnancy.
• There is more than one baby in the uterus (Twins or more).
• The uterus has too much or too little fluid (Amniotic fluid) around the baby.
• The uterus has an unusual shape or growths (Fibroids).
• The placenta covers all or part of the opening of the uterus (Placenta previa).
• The baby is pre-term (less than 37 completed weeks of pregnancy).

How can my health care provider tell if my baby is breech?

• Your health care provider will be performing regular physical examinations throughout your pregnancy. They will be able to feel the shape of your baby by placing their hands at certain points on your abdomen.
• An ultrasound scan can also be used to check the position of your baby.
• If your baby is breech, your health care provider may suggest an external cephalic version.

What is external cephalic version?

• It is a technique where the baby’s position is turned from bottom first, to head first.

How is external cephalic version done?

• Your health care provider will sign a consent form with you, ensuring that you understand what will happen.
• You may need a blood test and monitoring of the baby’s heart beat prior to the provider seeing you. This is to ensure that both you and your baby are completely healthy.
• A medicine that prevents uterine contractions may be used during the process.
• Gentle pressure is applied on your abdomen which helps the baby turn from a bottom first position to a head first position.
• A scan will be performed during the procedure to ensure your baby is healthy and has changed its position successfully.
• You will need to stay in the hospital for at least 2 hours after your baby has been turned to a head down position.
• The main benefit of external cephalic version is that it will increase the likelihood of you having a vaginal birth.
• There is no scientific evidence to support using certain exercises to help turn a baby’s position from bottom first to head first.

Is external cephalic version safe for me and my baby?

• External cephalic version is generally safe for women and their babies.
• Both you and your baby will be carefully monitored before, during and after external cephalic version. If your Health care provider does notice any problems, they will let you know.
• However, there is a small risk of rupture of membranes, bleeding around the placenta, fetal heart rate abnormalities, cord accident, and need for an emergency Cesarean section.

Is external cepahlic version suitable for everyone?

• Your health care provider will assess your health and how your pregnancy is progressing.
• External cephalic version may be offered from 36-37 weeks of pregnancy.
• Based on this assessment, they will discuss with you whether you are suitable for external cephalic version.

Does external cepahlic version always work?

• It is successful for about half of all women (50%).
• Your health care provider will give you information about your own individual chance of success.

At home after your external cephalic version

• Please contact the hospital if you experience any of the problems listed below:
  1. Bleeding
  2. Pain in your stomach/abdomen
  3. Contractions
  4. The baby’s movements have slowed down
• Your health care provider may advise you to return to the hospital for a follow up check.