The ABCs of Breech Pregnancy

The ABCs of Breech Pregnancy

Have you ever heard of a breech pregnancy? It's a term used to describe a situation where a baby is positioned feet or buttocks first in the mother's womb instead of the head down position, which is the ideal position for childbirth. This unique positioning can lead to some special considerations and potential complications during delivery.

What Causes Breech Presentation?

There are many reasons why a baby might present breech, including multiple pregnancies, low amniotic fluid levels, abnormal uterus shape, or certain medical conditions. Sometimes, babies simply prefer to be in the breech position!

Types of Breech Presentations

Breech presentation can be further classified into different types based on the baby's exact positioning in the womb. The three main types are:

• Frank Breech: Baby's legs are straight up in front of its body with feet near the head
• Complete Breech: Baby sits cross-legged with feet near the buttocks
• Incomplete Breech: Baby's feet or knees are below its bottom

Management and Delivery

Doctors will closely monitor breech pregnancies to determine the safest course of action. In some cases, a medical procedure called External Cephalic Version (ECV) may be attempted to turn the baby into a head-down position. If vaginal delivery is not possible or safe, a cesarean section may be recommended to ensure the baby's safety during childbirth.

Breech pregnancies require careful planning and coordination between the medical team and the expectant mother to ensure a safe and successful delivery. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and breech presentation is just one of the many variations that can occur during the miracle of childbirth!