Breech Birth: Debunking Myths and Empowering Families

When it comes to birth, the word "breech" often stirs anxiety and uncertainty. A breech birth occurs when a baby is positioned with their buttocks or feet closest to the birth canal, rather than the head. While breech presentations are less common (occurring in about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies), the perception that they automatically require a cesarean is one of the most persistent myths surrounding breech birth.

It’s time to unpack the facts, challenge the stigma, and empower families with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Myth 1: A Breech Baby Always Requires a Cesarean Birth

While cesareans are often recommended for breech presentations, they’re not the only option. Vaginal breech birth is still possible under the right circumstances with skilled care providers. The key lies in determining the type of breech presentation and whether a vaginal birth aligns with the birthing parent’s health, the baby’s position, and the care provider’s experience.

There are several types of breech positions:

Frank Breech: The baby’s buttocks are positioned to come out first, with legs folded up toward the head.
Complete Breech: The baby’s buttocks are first, but the legs are crossed or bent at the knees.
Footling Breech: One or both of the baby’s feet are positioned to come out first.

Frank breech is generally considered the most favorable position for a vaginal breech birth. In contrast, footling breech is riskier due to the potential for cord prolapse.

When managed properly, vaginal breech birth can be safe. However, not all care providers have the training or experience needed to handle breech deliveries, which is why cesareans are often recommended.

Myth 2: Breech Birth Is Too Dangerous to Attempt Vaginally

While breech births carry specific risks—like head entrapment or umbilical cord compression—they can often be mitigated by skilled care and careful monitoring. Modern research has shifted to recognize that vaginal breech birth, in select cases, can be as safe as cesarean birth.

A 2000 study called the Term Breech Trial suggested that cesareans were safer than vaginal breech births, leading to a rise in scheduled cesareans for breech babies. However, further research found flaws in the study, and newer data supports vaginal breech birth as a viable option when managed by an experienced provider.

The conversation around breech birth safety should center on informed consent, individualized care, and access to providers skilled in breech delivery.

Myth 3: There’s Nothing You Can Do About a Breech Baby

If your baby is in a breech position late in pregnancy, there are several options to encourage them to turn:

Positioning Exercises: Techniques like the forward-leaning inversion or the breech tilt (lying with your hips elevated) can create space for the baby to turn head-down.
Chiropractic Care: The Webster Technique is a gentle chiropractic adjustment that aims to balance the pelvis and encourage optimal fetal positioning.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion: These traditional practices, particularly moxibustion, have shown success in turning breech babies by stimulating specific pressure points.
External Cephalic Version (ECV): A healthcare provider manually attempts to turn the baby head-down by applying pressure to the abdomen. While it carries some risks, it’s often successful.

It’s important to note that some babies remain breech despite every effort, and that’s okay. Sometimes, there’s a reason for their position, such as the shape of the uterus or the length of the umbilical cord.

Empowering Families to Make Informed Decisions

Deciding how to proceed with a breech birth can feel overwhelming, especially when options are limited by provider experience or hospital policies. Here’s how you can take charge of your breech birth journey:

Educate Yourself: Understand the types of breech positions, the risks, and the benefits of both vaginal and cesarean birth.
Find a Skilled Provider: Look for care providers with experience in breech deliveries, including midwives or OB-GYNs trained in vaginal breech birth.
Consider Your Birth Preferences: Think about what matters most to you—whether that’s avoiding surgery, having a specific environment, or prioritizing certain safety measures.
Advocate for Your Choices: Ask questions, explore second opinions, and don’t hesitate to push for individualized care.

Breech Birth and the Role of a Doula

Navigating a breech birth can be emotionally and physically challenging. As a doula, I’m here to provide continuous support, help you process your options, and advocate for your birth preferences. Whether your baby turns head-down, you pursue an ECV, or you prepare for a vaginal breech or cesarean birth, you deserve a supportive team that honors your choices.

Breech birth isn’t a failure or something to fear—it’s simply another variation of normal. With the right care and resources, families can approach breech birth with confidence and empowerment.

If you’re preparing for a breech birth and have questions or need support, reach out. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Together, we’ll explore your options and ensure you feel informed and supported every step of the way. 💛