Breech Position and Breech Birth: Understanding Causes, Risks, and Management

Breech Position and Breech Birth

A breech position is when the baby is not head down in the uterus. Instead, the baby’s buttocks or feet are down first. Breech positions can be either frank, complete, or incomplete.

• A frank breech is when the baby’s buttocks are pointing down and the legs are extended up towards the head.
• A complete breech is when the baby’s buttocks are pointing down and the legs are bent at the knees and crossed over the chest.
• An incomplete breech is when the baby’s buttocks are pointing down and one or both legs are down by the head.

Breech positions are more common in multiple pregnancies and pregnancies with a low birth weight. They can also be caused by uterine abnormalities, a short umbilical cord, or a large placenta.

Risks of Breech Position

Breech positions can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. These complications include:

• Premature birth: Breech babies are more likely to be born prematurely.
• Low birth weight: Breech babies are more likely to have a low birth weight.
• C-section: Breech babies are more likely to be delivered by c-section.
• Cord prolapse: This is a condition in which the umbilical cord falls out of the uterus before the baby is born. It can be a life-threatening condition for the baby.
• Placental abruption: This is a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born. It can also be a life-threatening condition for the baby.
• Uterine rupture: This is a condition in which the uterus tears during labor. It can be a life-threatening condition for both the mother and the baby.

What can be done about a breech position?

There are a few things that can be done to try to correct a breech position. These include:

• External cephalic version (ECV): This is a procedure in which the doctor tries to manually turn the baby head down. ECV is usually done between 36 and 38 weeks of pregnancy. It is successful about 50% of the time.
• Breech presentation: This is a type of vaginal delivery in which the baby is delivered feet first. Breech presentation is more dangerous than head-first delivery, but it can be done safely if the doctor is experienced.
• Cesarean section (C-section): This is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen. C-section is the safest way to deliver a breech baby, but it is also a major surgery.

What to expect during a breech birth

If you are planning to have a breech birth, it is important to be aware of the risks and benefits. You should also discuss your options with your doctor.

Vaginal breech birth

If you are planning to have a vaginal breech birth, your doctor will likely recommend that you have an epidural. This will help to relieve pain during labor and delivery.

Your doctor will also likely use a vacuum extractor or forceps to help deliver the baby. These instruments can help to reduce the risk of complications.

Cesarean section

If you are planning to have a c-section, you will likely be given general anesthesia. This will put you to sleep during the surgery.

Your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. Once the baby is born, your doctor will close the incisions.

Recovery from a breech birth

Recovery from a breech birth is similar to recovery from a head-first delivery. You will likely stay in the hospital for 2-3 days after delivery. During this time, you will be monitored for complications.

You may experience some pain and discomfort after delivery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help relieve pain.

You will also need to take care of your incision if you had a c-section. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for your incision.

Conclusion

Breech positions can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. However, with proper care, most breech babies can be delivered safely. If you are pregnant with a breech baby, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor.