If your baby is in a breech position at 36 weeks, you may be offered an external…

If your baby is in a breech position at 36 weeks, you may be offered an external cephalic version (ECV). This is when an obstetrician, tries to turn the baby into a head-down position by applying pressure on your abdomen. It can be a bit uncomfortable but around 50% of breech babies can be turned using ECV, allowing a vaginal birth. When an ecv has taken place, you will be monitored closely for a while afterwards to ensure all is well with the baby. As with many interventions there are risks associated with an ecv. Approximately 1 in 200 babies will require delivery by C-section straight after an ecv due to complications such as bleeding from the placenta which may cause fetal distress. Sometimes a baby may also flip back into the breech position. . Some women may want to discuss rhe possibility of having a breech vaginal birth rather than having an ecv. You can discuss this with your obstetrician. There are some scenarios where a breech vaginal birth would not be recommended and those include: Having a low lying placenta If the baby's head is tilted too far back making the deluevey of the head difficult If the baby is a 'footling breech' feet first rather that bum first If you have preeclampsia For some women, a planned C-section is the best option for them. . . . . . . . . . #obgyn #womenshealth #gynecology #health #pregnancy #baby #breech #obstetrics #gynecologist #love #doctor #instagram #pregnant #ecv #medicine #drops #evidence #laboranddelivery