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Turning a Breech Baby: Care Instructions

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Normal and frank breech positions of fetus

Overview

At the end of most pregnancies, the baby's head is near the birth canal (vagina). But sometimes a baby's rear end or feet are near the birth canal. This position is called breech.

If your baby stays in this breech position, you will probably need a cesarean section (C-section). Most breech babies are healthy and don't have problems after birth.

Your doctor may try to turn your baby. To do this, the doctor presses on certain places on your belly. Sometimes this causes the baby to turn. The medical name for this process is external cephalic version.

During the process of trying to turn your baby, your doctor will carefully watch your uterus. There's a chance that the pressure and movement might start contractions. There's also a chance that the umbilical cord will twist or get damaged.

If your baby turns, your doctor may send you home. But the doctor will check you often until your labor starts. If your baby's head stays down, you may be able to have a vaginal delivery. But a small number of babies move back into a breech position.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How is the procedure done?

  • Your doctor will give you medicine to relax your uterus. Your doctor may give you medicine for pain and to help you relax.
  • Your doctor will put both hands on your belly. One hand will be near the baby's head. The other hand will be near the baby's rear end. The doctor will push and roll the baby to try to get the head down.
  • You may feel some pain. The doctor will ask you how you are doing.
  • Your doctor will use a heart monitor to see how your baby is doing.
  • After the process, your doctor will give you instructions for your care.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means you are soaking through a pad each hour for 2 or more hours.
  • You have sudden, severe pain in your belly or pelvis.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have new or worse vaginal bleeding.
  • You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
  • You have pain in your belly, pelvis, or lower back.
  • You think that you are in labor.
  • You have a sudden release of fluid from your vagina.
  • You've been having regular contractions for an hour. This means that you've had at least 8 contractions within 1 hour or at least 4 contractions within 20 minutes, even after you change your position and drink fluids.
  • You notice that your baby has stopped moving or is moving much less than normal.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter I027 in the search box to learn more about "Turning a Breech Baby: Care Instructions".

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.