Discovering that your baby is in a breech position at 30 weeks can evoke a range of emotions. However, it’s important to remember that you have options and resources available. This blog aims to provide comprehensive information to help you understand your situation and make informed decisions about your pregnancy and delivery.
What is a Breech Position?
A breech position means that your baby is positioned in the womb with their buttocks or feet facing down towards the birth canal, instead of the head. There are a few types of breech positions:
- Frank Breech: Baby’s buttocks are aimed at the birth canal with legs sticking straight up in front of the body.
- Complete Breech: Baby is sitting cross-legged with feet and bottom closest to the birth canal.
- Incomplete Breech: In an incomplete breech position, the baby has one or both knees bent and one or both hips bent, causing either the feet or the knees to be positioned below the buttocks.
- Footling Breech: One or both of the baby’s feet are positioned to deliver first.
Why Does Breech Position Happen?
Several factors can contribute to a baby being in a breech position:
- Premature birth
- Abnormal shape of the uterus or presence of fibroids
- Excess or too little amniotic fluid
- Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
- The placenta cover some or all of your cervix
What Are My Options?
Waiting and Monitoring –
Many babies in breech position at 30 weeks turn to the head-down position by the time labour starts. Regular monitoring through ultrasounds can track your baby’s position as your pregnancy progresses.
External Cephalic Version (ECV) –
ECV is a procedure where a healthcare provider attempts to turn the baby into a head-down position by applying pressure to your abdomen. It’s typically done between 36 and 38 weeks and has a success rate of around 50-60%.
Exercises and Positions –
Certain exercises and positions, such as pelvic tilts, knee-to-chest positions, on all fours, child’s pose, and using a birthing ball, can encourage your baby to turn.
Chiropractic Care –
The Webster Technique, a chiropractic adjustment, can create more room in the pelvis and may help the baby to turn naturally.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion –
These traditional Chinese medicine practices are believed to stimulate the baby’s activity and encourage turning.
Other methods you can try include:
- Using music to encourage your baby to turn. You do this by placing a speaker at the bottom of your uterus
- You can try placing something cold at the top of your stomach where the baby’s head is and something warm at the bottom, using temperature to encourage your baby to turn
What If My Baby Doesn’t Turn?
Vaginal Breech Birth –
Though less common, some healthcare providers have experience and are willing to deliver a breech baby vaginally. This option depends on the type of breech position, the baby’s size, and the healthcare provider’s experience.
Planned Caesarean Section –
A caesarean section is often recommended if the baby remains in a breech position to ensure a safe delivery for both the mother and the baby. Discuss with your healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits.
Making an Informed Decision
It’s crucial to discuss all available options with your healthcare provider, considering your specific circumstances, preferences, and any potential risks. Every pregnancy is unique, and your healthcare team can provide personalised guidance. The best choice for you is one that you will not regret later. Take the time to connect with your baby and your body and listen to what you truly want during this pregnancy.
Creating Your Support Network:
Who is someone you can trust for emotional support? Perhaps this may be your partner, a friend, a family member, your doula, etc
Who can offer you professional advice and support? This may be your midwife, obstetrician, doctor, or maybe your doula
Who can you relate to? Connecting with other mothers who have experienced breech pregnancies can provide emotional support and valuable insights. You can connect with people on Facebook groups, birthing classes, schools / childcare services, etc
Resources Available:
Books:
- ‘Helping your breech baby turn’ ebook by Spinning Babies offers a structured program to encouraging your baby to turn, or to reduce muscle tension before an ECV: https://www.spinningbabies.com/product/helping-your-breech-baby-turn-ebook/
Websites:
- If you reach the end of your pregnancy and your baby is still breech, then RANZCOG’s ‘Breech Presentation at the End of your Pregnancy’ may be useful: https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Breech-presentation-at-the-end-of-your-pregnancy.pdf
- Spinning Babies offer extensive information about breech positions and your options: https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/baby-position/breech/
Courses:
- Spinning Babies Parent class: https://www.spinningbabies.com/product/parent-class-video-digital-download/
- Breech Birth Network offers online training, study days and transparent research which you may find useful: https://breechbirth.org.uk
Conclusion
While having a baby in a breech position at 30 weeks may seem daunting, understanding your options and being proactive can help you navigate this situation with confidence. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and lean on your support system as you prepare for the arrival of your little one.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and the best choice is the one that feels right for you and your baby. If you have any questions or concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.
My name is Tahlia Merrett, and I am qualified doula who has completed training through the Doula Training Academy. I am based in Coburg Victoria, and I would love to hear from you on:
Business Name:
Bloomful Birth Services
Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
0428 521 445