Everything you need to know about breech babies
Breech baby
All parents want the birth of their child to be as safe and as smooth as can be, however, unfortunately this is not always the case. One type of delivery that can present complications is a breech birth, when the baby is not in head-down position. When this occurs, medical professionals need to act quickly and efficiently to ensure the safety of the baby and the mother. In this blog post, we will look at the signs, risks and management of breech births, so that all expecting parents can be best prepared for the birth of their child.
Keep in mind though that only 3% of babies at term are breech so the odds are low that your baby will be breech.
How to know if a baby is breech
If you are pregnant and approaching your due date, it is important to know the position of your baby. If the baby is in a breech position, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with a breech birth. To know if your baby is breech, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can use ultrasound imaging to determine the baby’s position. Additionally, during your prenatal visits, your healthcare provider will likely feel your abdomen to determine if your baby is head down, breech, or sideways. If the baby is breech, your doctor will likely discuss the options available, such as an external cephalic version or a caesarean section. It is important to have the knowledge of your baby’s position in order to prepare for a safe and healthy delivery.
How to turn a breech baby
Turning a breech baby is a process in which a doctor manually turns a fetus from a breech position to a vertex position, preferably before labor begins. To turn a breech baby, the doctor will use their hands to apply gentle pressure to the mother’s abdomen and help the baby turn from its feet- or bottom-first position to a head-first position. To do this, the doctor will first locate the baby’s feet and check to see if they are in the breech position. Once they are located, the doctor will then use their hands to gently apply pressure to the mother’s abdomen and help the baby turn. This process typically takes 5-10 minutes and can be repeated multiple times if necessary. It is important to note that this process should only be done by a qualified healthcare professional, as attempting to turn a breech baby on your own could cause harm to your baby.
How to deliver a breech baby
Delivering a breech baby requires specialized medical training and experience. The first step is to assess the position of the fetus and confirm that it is in a breech position. The next step is to decide whether to attempt a vaginal delivery or proceed with a cesarean section. If possible, a vaginal delivery is preferred as it is associated with fewer risks. The delivering healthcare provider should be prepared to use specialized techniques to help turn the baby’s position if necessary, such as external cephalic version. During the delivery, the healthcare provider should monitor the baby’s heart rate closely, and be prepared to intervene if necessary. After the delivery, the baby should be monitored closely for signs of respiratory distress, low blood sugar, and jaundice, among other conditions. With the help of medical professionals, delivering a breech baby can be a safe experience.
In conclusion, knowing if your baby is breech and understanding the ways you can turn your baby and prepare for a breech birth are important steps to take. It is always best to consult with your doctor and midwife to determine the best course of action. With the right information, preparation and support, parents can be prepared for the birth of their baby, whether breech or not.
