If you are pregnant or know someone who is pregnant, it is important to learn about breech babies. A breech baby is one who is not in the correct position for birth. They often present themselves with their feet or bottom first instead of their head. About 3-4 per cent of all pregnancies will result in the baby being breech. This can cause complications during labour and delivery. This blog post will discuss the causes of breech births, how to tell if your baby is breech, and what you can do to prepare for breech birth.
Different types of Breech positions
- Frank breech is the most common type of breech and occurs when the baby’s bottom is down, and their legs are pulled up so that their feet are near their head.
- Complete breech happens when the baby sits upright in the uterus, with their legs crossed and their arms out to the side.
- Footling breech is less common and happens when one or both of the baby’s feet are near the head while the rest of the body remains in a complete breech position (she’d come out feet-first if delivered vaginally).
Each of these positions can cause complications during childbirth, so it is important to be aware of the different types of breech positions.
Causes of Breech baby
- Uterine abnormalities can make it difficult for the fetus to turn into the head-down position.
- The placenta may also be located in a way that makes it difficult for the fetus to turn.
- If you had a previous breech delivery, there are more chances of subsequent babies turning out breech as well.
- Breech presentation is more common in premature births, as the baby has less time to turn into the head-down position.
- Fetal abnormalities can also cause breech presentation, as certain conditions (such as deformities of the pelvis) make it difficult for the baby to turn.
- Smoking during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of breech presentation. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen available to the developing fetus, leading to weakened muscles and bones.
- The volume of amniotic fluid. Too little or too much amniotic fluid can also cause a breech position. Not enough fluid makes it difficult for your baby to “swim” around, while too much means she has too much space and can flip between breech and a head-down position.
- Multiple gestations (twins or triplets) may make it more difficult for the fetus to achieve a head-down position. If a woman carries more than one baby, breech presentation is more likely to occur.
Complications
One of the most serious complications is umbilical cord prolapse, which happens when the cord drops down into the birth canal ahead of the baby. This can cause the cord to become compressed, cutting off oxygen and blood flow to the baby.
Another complication is called the nuchal cord, which happens when the umbilical cord becomes wrapped around the baby’s neck. This can also lead to decreased oxygen and blood flow.
In some cases, breech babies can also experience shoulder dystocia, where their shoulders get stuck behind the mother’s pubic bone during delivery. This can be a severe condition, as it can cause permanent damage to the baby’s nerves or even death. However, with proper medical care, most breech babies can be born safely.
How can you turn a breech baby?
When a baby is in the breech position, they are positioned to come out feet instead of head first. While this isn’t necessarily dangerous, it can be more difficult to deliver. If you’re hoping to avoid a C-section, there are a few things you can do to try to turn a breech baby.
One option is called External Cephalic Version (ECV) is when a doctor manually tries to turn the baby from the outside. This is usually only attempted after 37 weeks, and it does have a small risk of rupture of amniotic membranes or placental abruption.
Another option is called moxibustion, an ancient Chinese practice that involves burning a herb near the foot’s little toe to encourage the baby to move.
Acupuncture may be beneficial as well. It’s essential to consult with your doctor before trying these methods, as they may not be appropriate for every situation. But if you’re hoping to avoid a C-section, they may be worth considering.
You may be wondering how you will know if your baby is in the breech position. There are a few signs to look for. First, feel your abdomen, where the hard parts of your baby’s head, bottom, and feet are located. It is also common for breech babies to have their heartbeats lower in their chests than average. Your healthcare provider will also be able to tell if your baby is breech during a routine ultrasound.
If your baby is breech, you can do a few things to prepare for their birth. One option is to have a vaginal delivery. This can be done if the baby is in a particular position and the healthcare provider feels comfortable. Another option is a C-section. This may be recommended if other complicating factors are present or if the baby’s position cannot be changed. Whichever route you choose, make sure you are informed and prepared for your breech baby’s arrival!
Breech births can be a little bit more complicated, but with the proper preparation, they can go smoothly. Be sure to stay informed and ask plenty of questions so that you are as prepared as possible!
Thanks for reading😊.
