Breech Baby At 34 Weeks Chances Of Turning
Carrying a baby in the womb is one of the most magical experiences for a woman. The anticipation of holding your little one in your arms is an amazing feeling. However, sometimes things don't go as planned, and your baby may be in a breech position. A breech baby is when the baby's feet or buttocks are positioned to come out first during delivery. This can be a cause of concern for many mothers, especially if they are already 34 weeks pregnant. In this article, we will discuss the chances of a breech baby turning at 34 weeks.
What is a Breech Baby?
A breech baby is a baby that is positioned to come out feet or buttocks first instead of the head. This is not the ideal position for delivery and can cause complications during childbirth. There are three types of breech positions: frank breech, complete breech, and footling breech. Frank breech is when the baby's buttocks come out first, complete breech is when the baby is sitting cross-legged with their feet tucked under them, and footling breech is when one or both feet come out first.
Why Does a Baby Turn Breech?
There are several reasons why a baby may turn breech. One of the most common reasons is the lack of space in the uterus. This can happen if you have a small pelvis or if you are carrying twins or more. Other reasons include placenta previa, where the placenta is positioned in front of the baby's head, and abnormalities in the shape of the uterus.
Chances of a Breech Baby Turning at 34 Weeks
At 34 weeks, most babies are in a head-down position, which is the ideal position for delivery. However, some babies may still be breech at this stage. The chances of a breech baby turning at 34 weeks depend on several factors, including the size of the baby, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the position of the placenta. On average, about 4% of babies are in a breech position at full term. However, the chances of a breech baby turning decrease as the due date approaches.
How to Encourage a Breech Baby to Turn
If your baby is still breech at 34 weeks, there are several things you can do to encourage them to turn. One of the most effective methods is to do exercises that involve getting on your hands and knees. This position can help the baby move into a head-down position. You can also try acupuncture, moxibustion, or chiropractic care. These alternative therapies have been known to help turn breech babies. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any of these methods.
When to Consider an External Cephalic Version?
If your baby is still breech at 37 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend an external cephalic version (ECV). This is a procedure where your healthcare provider will try to turn your baby from the outside by using their hands to manipulate the baby's position. ECV is safe and effective for most women, but there are some risks involved, including premature labor and fetal distress. Your healthcare provider will monitor you and your baby closely during the procedure to ensure their safety.
Conclusion
A breech baby can be a cause of concern for many mothers, especially if they are already 34 weeks pregnant. However, the chances of a breech baby turning at 34 weeks depend on several factors, including the size of the baby, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the position of the placenta. While there are several things you can do to encourage your baby to turn, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any of these methods. If your baby is still breech at 37 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend an external cephalic version to turn the baby.