Breech position in pregnancy means that the baby is not in the usual head-down position before birth. In this, the baby’s feet or bottom are facing downward. Breech position can make delivery more complicated and can cause issues. Sometimes, babies turn on their own before birth and some stay in this position. In this situation, doctors check the baby’s position during regular checkups. They also suggest different ways to handle this situation and have a safe pregnancy.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, the best gynecologist in South Delhi, helps mothers with breech pregnancies. Our team offers guidance, exercises, and medical support to help the baby turn naturally. In this blog, we will share everything you need to know about Breech Position and how to manage it.
What is the Breech Position in Pregnancy?
The breech position in pregnancy happens when a baby is positioned with its feet or bottom facing down instead of the head. This occurs in about 3 to 4 out of every 100 full-term pregnancies. Most babies naturally turn head-down before birth but there are some that remain in a breech position. This situation can make delivery more complicated and raise issues in pregnancy.
It is important for expectant mothers to understand this condition. This will help them to explore other options for a safe birth. Going for regular checkups will help to detect breech position at an early stage. There is a full pregnancy scan list from which a breech baby can be identified. It will also help the doctor to suggest ways to encourage the baby to turn or plan the safest delivery method for you.
Causes Of Breech Baby
A breech baby happens when the baby does not move into the head-down position before birth. There are many factors that can cause breech position in pregnancy. It’s important to understand the causes before making any decision. Let’s see what are the reasons behind a breech baby:
- Multiple pregnancies: If the woman is carrying more than one baby. This can limit space and make it harder for each baby to move into the head-down position.
- Too much or too little amniotic fluid: An imbalance in amniotic fluid can also affect the baby’s movement. This can also stop them from turning into a head-down position.
- Uterine abnormalities: If the mother has an unusually shaped uterus or fibroids then it can also restrict the baby to move.
- Placenta previa: It happens when the placenta covers the cervix. It stops the baby from moving into the correct position.
- Premature birth: Those babies who are born before 37 weeks may not have had enough time to turn head-down.
Four Types Of Breech Presentation
There are four types of breech presentation. Each type depends on how the baby is positioned in the womb. It’s important to identify the exact type to help doctors decide the safest delivery technique.
- Frank Breech
This is the most common type of breech presentation. The baby’s bottom is down and both the legs are stretched straight up and the feet near the head. In some cases, vaginal delivery may be possible. However, doctors often recommend a C-section to ensure that the pregnancy is safe.
- Complete Breech
In this position, the baby’s bottom is down and the legs are bent at the knees. Also, the baby’s feet are tucked close to the buttocks. The baby appears to be in a cross-legged sitting position. A complete breech can sometimes be turned using external cephalic version (ECV). This is a procedure where doctors try to rotate the baby manually.
- Incomplete Breech (Footling Breech)
An incomplete breech happens when one or both the feet are positioned to come out first before the rest of the body. This is also known as a footling breech. It is more common in premature babies because they have more space to move inside the womb. A C-section is usually recommended for safety because vaginal delivery can be risky if the baby’s feet come out first.
- Transverse Breech (Rare)
In this rare type, the baby is lying sideways across the womb rather than in an up-and-down position. In this, neither the head nor the bottom is facing downward. Babies in a transverse position cannot be delivered vaginally, and a C-section is the safest option among all.
Symptoms Of Breech Baby Turning
In breech position in pregnancy when the baby is turning then the mother may notice several signs. This usually happens between 32 to 37 weeks of pregnancy. Here are some common symptoms of a baby turning from breech to a head-down position:
- Increased Movement
You may feel stronger kicks and shifting movements in different areas as the baby turns. Some women may notice a sudden, big rolling sensation when this happens.
- Pressure in the Pelvis
As the baby’s head moves downward, there is increased pressure in the lower abdomen. This can also cause more frequent urination as the baby presses on the bladder.
- Change in Belly Shape
Your belly may look lower and more rounded as the baby settles into the head-down position. The bump may feel less tight at the top compared to when the baby was in breech position.
- Easier Breathing
Your breathing will feel lighter because the baby’s head will no longer be pressing on the diaphragm. Many women experience immediate relief from shortness of breath.
- Less Rib Pain
Previously, the baby’s feet may have pressed against the ribs which caused discomfort. However, after turning, this pain reduces, but you may feel more pressure in the lower abdomen.
If you notice these symptoms then it’s important to consult your doctor. They will do a physical exam or an ultrasound to confirm. You can also come to RISAA IVF and consult Dr. Rita Bakshi, the best gynecologist in Delhi.
Important Note: There are no specific symptoms that indicate whether a breech baby is a boy or a girl. The position of the baby in the womb is not caused by gender but by other factors. It includes uterine shape, amniotic fluid levels, and multiple pregnancies.
If Your Baby Is Breech Where Do You Feel The Movements?
If your baby is in a breech position then you may feel movements in different areas compared to a head-down baby. Here’s where you might notice:
- Strong Kicks in the Lower Belly
In a breech position, the baby’s legs are up near the ribs and you may feel strong kicks in the lower part of your belly or near your bladder.
- Firm and Round Pressure Near the Ribs
The baby’s head may be positioned near the ribs which may create a hard and rounded feeling in the upper belly.
- Hiccups Felt Higher Up
You may experience fetal hiccups. These are usually felt lower in a head-down baby and may be higher up near the ribs in a breech baby.
- Light Movements in the Lower Belly
In a breech position in pregnancy, the baby’s hands are positioned downward which can make you feel gentle or small movements near the pelvis.
Note: If you are unsure about your baby’s position then your doctor can confirm it through an ultrasound or physical examination. So, it’s important to consult a gynecologist for better help and support.
How To Avoid Breech Position In Pregnancy?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent a breech position in pregnancy. However, there are some steps that may help your baby to move into a head-down position before birth. Here are some tips that someone with a breech baby can follow:
- Maintain Good Posture
Sitting upright with your hips higher than your knees can create more space for the baby to turn. It’s important to avoid slouching and use a birthing ball for additional support.
- Do Gentle Exercises
Try exercises like pelvic tilts, breech tilt (lying with hips raised), and forward-leaning inversions. These exercises will help the baby to change its position.
- Prenatal Yoga & Stretching
There are certain yoga poses like the child’s pose and downward dog. These can help the baby to move into the right position.
- Swimming & Water Exercises
You can float in water to help reduce pressure on the uterus. It will give the baby more space to move in the right position.
- Stay Active
It’s important to walk regularly and do light physical activity. These activities can help improve circulation and help the baby to move.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV)
Doctors may try ECV if the baby remains breech after 36-37 weeks. In this procedure they manually turn the baby head-down from the outside.
Important Note: Always talk to your gynecologist before trying any method to ensure safety for both you and your baby. They will guide you whether it’s safe for you to try any of the above methods or not.
Sleeping Positions To Turn Breech Baby
The way you sleep can help to create space for your baby to move into a head-down position. Here are some sleeping positions that may help a breech baby to turn:
- Sleep on Your Side
You can lie on your left side to improve blood flow to the uterus. This will also give the baby more space to move. Use a pillow between your legs for more comfort.
- Use the “Open-Knee Chest” Position
Kneel on your bed with your chest lowered and hips raised before sleeping. Stay in this position for 15-20 minutes to help the baby to move.
- Keep Your Hips raised
Place a pillow under your hips while lying down to tilt your pelvis. This may help the baby move out of the breech position in pregnancy.
- Avoid Sleeping on Your Back
Lying on your back can put a lot of pressure on your spine and stop the baby from moving. So, it’s recommended to sleep sideways.
Closing Line
The breech position in pregnancy occurs when a baby is positioned bottom or feet first instead of head-down before birth. This is common in early pregnancy and most babies turn naturally before delivery. However, if the baby remains in a breech position, it’s important to understand the causes, types, symptoms, and possible ways to help them turn. In this blog, we have discussed everything you need to know about breech pregnancy.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, one of the best gynecologists in South Delhi, helps to manage breech pregnancies and ensure a safe delivery. She offers guidance on natural turning techniques, medical treatments, and delivery options. If you have any questions feel free to contact us in the given number or mail us at doctor@risaaivf.com.
