Breech birth

Breech birth is a birth in which the fetus's bottom is facing toward the cervix and the vaginal opening, rather than its head, which is the ideal, and usual position for a baby. About three percent of human births are breech births. Labour and vaginal delivery is possible, although not usually attempted by obstetricians, with the baby delivered bottom first. Every attempt should be made to turn the baby prior to delivery to prevent unnecessary Caesarean section. This can be done through external cephalic version just prior to vaginal delivery for babies in the breech position. Other methods can be used to turn a breech prior to the date of delivery including tilting the pelvis forward with tailor sitting and yoga positions, maintaining the "PC" muscle and even reflexology and other alternative methods.

As birth has not actually occurred when this situation is discovered, the more accurate term for this situation is breech presentation.

A footling breech is a much rarer situation where the fetus's foot is facing towards the cervix. Vaginal delivery is possible in this case. This presentation is what most professionals work toward when attempting an assisted breech delivery.

Diagnosis

A doctor or midwife will be able to tell the position of the baby by feeling it through the wall of the mother's abdomen. Another clue to the position is the location where the heartbeat is heard best. The only way to really be sure, however, is to do an ultrasound exam. Using this technique it is very easy to tell the position of the baby.

Treatment

Cesarean section is the most common way to deliver a breech baby. This surgical procedure carries more risk for the mother, but the risks should be discussed so that all parties involved can be informed of the options available.

Normal vaginal birth should only be attempted if ultrasound shows that the baby is in a favorable breech position. Most babies will do very well during a breech delivery, but it is always possible that the baby will be injured.