During pregnancy, there may come a time when your healthcare provider discovers that your baby is in a breech position. This means your baby's feet, knees, or buttocks are likely to emerge first during delivery, instead of their head. The question that naturally arises is, "Can you flip a breech baby?"
The answer is yes, it is possible to "flip" a breech baby, either through external version, or by encouraging the baby to turn naturally. Let's delve into these options and understand how they work.
External Version - Manual Breech Turning
External version is a procedure where a healthcare provider uses their hands to manually turn the baby from a breech position to a head-first position.
Here's how it works: Your healthcare provider will apply pressure to your abdomen to guide the baby's body into a more favorable position. This is usually done after 37 weeks of pregnancy, and it's typically more successful in first pregnancies and with more amniotic fluid.
Preparation for External Version
Before the procedure, you may receive a steroid injection to help your baby's lungs mature, in case they need to be delivered early. Your healthcare provider will also monitor your baby's heart rate during the procedure to ensure their safety.
Once you're in a comfortable position, your healthcare provider will apply firm, consistent pressure on your abdomen to try to move your baby's body into a head-first position. The procedure usually takes about 20 minutes, but your healthcare provider will likely monitor your baby's heart rate for up to an hour afterwards.
Success Rate and Risks of External Version
The success rate of external version varies, but it's generally highest (up to 80%) when it's done between 37 and 40 weeks of pregnancy, and in first pregnancies. It's also more successful when there's more amniotic fluid.
Risks of external version include rupture of membranes, transmittercardia (a slow heart rate), and preterm labor. Your doctor will discuss any potential risks with you before the procedure.
Encouraging Your Baby to Turn Naturally
In some cases, you can encourage your baby to turn naturally by using various techniques.
Here are a few methods you might try:
Incline Rest
Lying on your left side can encourage your baby to turn. You can use a Body pillow or a wedge to maintain this position while sleeping or resting.
This position helps to shift your baby's weight and may encourage them to move their head downwards into a vertex (head-down) position.
Motions and Movements
Certain movements and activities may also help your baby to turn. These include doing inversions, such as standing on your head (with help) or doing a supported shoulder-stand pose in yoga, or squatting and leaning forward on a birthing ball.
The idea is to use these movements to stimulate your baby and encourage them to change positions. However, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider before trying any of these techniques, to ensure they're safe for you and your baby.
Other Methods
Other methods to encourage your baby to turn naturally include using a breast pump to stimulate your baby and inspire them to move, moxibustion (using heat therapy with mugwort), or acupuncture.
However, it's crucial to remember that these methods may not work for everyone, and more invasive methods like external version may still be necessary.
Ultimately, the key is open communication with your healthcare provider. They can guide you through the process, help you understand your options, and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.