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Understanding what breech and transverse positions mean and how doctors can help you is important to prepare you for your delivery day.
What Are Breech and Transverse Positions?
In a head-down or cephalic position, the baby’s head is near the birth canal. This position is the most common and safest way for delivery. However, sometimes the baby may take a breech or transverse position towards the end of the pregnancy.
A breech position is when the baby’s bottom or their feet are pointing down towards the birth canal instead of their head. There are a few types of breech positions as well. These include:
- Frank breech: This is the most common breech position form. In this, the baby’s bottom points down toward the birth canal, while its legs are stretched up with the feet near the head.
- Complete breech: In this type, the baby’s buttocks are down, and the knees are bent with the legs tucked close to the body. The baby appears to be sitting upright, with the head positioned upward.
- Footling breech: In this position, one or both of the baby’s feet are positioned downward toward the birth canal. This means the feet would come out first during birth.
Why Does the Baby Take A Breech or Transverse Position?
The causes behind breech or transverse positions are not fully understood. However, studies have shown that these positions are commonly seen in cases of:
- Placenta lying low (placenta previa)
- Abnormal uterine shape
- Abnormal uterine growths like fibroids
- Too much or too little amniotic fluid
How Do Doctors Handle Breech or Transverse Babies?
A doctor will monitor the baby’s position in every late-pregnancy visit. If your baby is still in a breech or a transverse position after 36 weeks, your doctor may offer to perform an External Cephalic Version (ECV).
An External Cephalic Version (ECV) is a procedure used to turn a breech baby into a head-down position before birth. In this procedure, an obstetrician places their hands on your abdomen and gently applies pressure to help the baby rotate. The procedure is done from the outside; hence, no instruments are inserted into the vagina.
ECV usually takes about two hours, including time to monitor the baby before and after. It is often done near an operating room in case an emergency C-section is needed. You may feel some discomfort, but medicine is often given to relax the uterus and make the process easier.
ECV is not recommended if you have:
- Low amniotic fluid
- Multiple pregnancies
- Vaginal bleeding
- Placenta previa
- Abnormal baby heart rate
- An irregularly shaped uterus
- High blood pressure or diabetes.
- A condition that prevents the use of medicines to stop contractions
If ECV doesn’t work or isn’t safe to try, doctors plan the safest way to deliver the baby.
Delivery Options include:
Breech delivery can sometimes happen vaginally if conditions are ideal and the medical team is experienced. Transverse lie almost always requires a C-section, because the baby cannot come out sideways. Breech or transverse position, your doctor knows what is best and safe for both you and your baby.
Breech or Transverse baby myth
Many people still believe that a breech or transverse position always means that you will need a C-section. However, that is not always the case. In some cases, the baby may move into a head-down position towards the end of your pregnancy.
What should expecting parents do?
Breech and transverse positions are common. You are not alone. However, being calm, prepared, and trusting your doctor is important. Some steps you can follow to stay calm and prepared include:
- Ask about position: At each check-up after 32 weeks, ask where your baby’s head is.
- Stay active: Gentle walks and light stretching help your body stay comfortable.
- Maintain posture: Sitting upright and avoiding long hours reclining can help your baby move freely.
- Stay hydrated and rest well: Overall well-being supports good uterine tone and fetal movement.
- Avoid panic: Babies often turn head-down on their own before labour.
- Discuss delivery options early: If your baby stays breech or transverse, plan with your doctor in advance.
When Should You Seek Help?
Call or visit your doctor if you:
- Feel sudden changes in your baby’s movements
- Notice pain, bleeding, or fluid leakage
- Have early contractions before 37 weeks
A breech and transverse baby is common. While it may make you anxious, there is usually nothing to worry about. In most cases, a breech or transverse baby comes into a head-down position towards the end of the pregnancy. However, even if this is not the case, there is no need to panic. Your care team knows what is best for you and your baby. Just stay informed, calm, and trust your medical team to guide you safely through your delivery journey.
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FAQs on Breech and Transverse Baby Positions: Myths vs. Medical Facts in India
- Can a baby turn head-down after 37 weeks?
Yes, in some cases, babies may turn even after 37 weeks. Although the chances of a baby going in a head-down position are usually unlikely after 37 weeks due to less space in the womb. - Can certain exercises or yoga positions turn a breech baby?
Yes, some gentle movements may support the baby's movements. However, no exercise can guarantee your baby will turn into a head-down position. Remember to always speak to your healthcare provider before trying any exercise.
