How can I shift a breech baby before birth?

If you are in the later stage of your pregnancy and your baby is still breeched, you may be concerned about the risks that will cause for a successful birth. If you are not in labour, your baby still has plenty of time to turn around and get into the proper position.

Of course, if you are still concerned there are ways to motivate your baby out of the breech position. Your doctor may try to lift or push your belly with his or her hands to talk your baby into rolling into the right spot. This procedure is called version. This will not be conducted until after an ultrasound has confirmed it is necessary and that the placenta is not in the way. This generally isn’t done until at least the 36 week mark as most doctors want the baby to turn on its own. Even at 36 weeks, there are still four weeks left for your baby to change its mind and go back into the breech position.

There are few complications with this type of method, but there are possible risks such as placental abruption, heart rate issues, membrane rupture and even premature labour. So, don’t be surprised if this is done near a delivery room on the rare chance that something goes wrong and your baby must be delivered immediately.