If your baby is in a breech position at 36 weeks, you'll usually be offered an external cephalic version (ECV). This is when a healthcare professional, such as an obstetrician, tries to turn the baby into a head-down position by applying pressure on your abdomen. It's a safe procedure, although it can be a bit uncomfortable. Around 50% of breech babies can be turned using ECV, allowing a vaginal birth.
If an ECV does not work, you'll need to discuss your options for a vaginal birth or caesarean section with your midwife and obstetrician. If you plan a caesarean and then go into labour before the operation, your obstetrician will assess whether it's safe to proceed with the caesarean delivery. If the baby is close to being born, it may be safer for you to have a vaginal breech birth.
Complimentary Therapies
There is some evidence suggesting that moxibustion, an herbal Chinese therapy, and acupuncture may assist in encouraging your baby to change position. However, please note that these services are not currently provided by the NHS. Therefore, we recommend consulting a qualified practitioner for guidance and treatment if you opt for these approaches.
Some clinicians suggest that optimizing fetal positioning through specific postures can maximize pelvic space and encourage your baby to reposition. You might also come across information on chiropractic techniques and complementary therapies to facilitate a breech baby's movement. If you wish to explore these options, we advise seeking specialist advice.