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Breech Births
Breech birth is very different to birth when baby is head down. Complications are more likely and for this reason we always recommend birth in hospital when baby is breech. We are happy to support and advocate for you in a hospital environment. This could be for an elective caesarean section, or a vaginal breech birth. For some women, home birth is still their preference even after they have all of the information on possible complications. In these circumstances, we will view each case individually and if we are able to help you, we will
Private Midwives & Breech Presentations
At Private Midwives, we believe in supporting every woman’s right to make informed decisions about her birthing experience, including when it comes to vaginal breech birth. While breech presentations are less common, we understand that some expectant families may choose this path after carefully considering all the options available. However, it is important to recognise that there are unique factors with breech births that need to be considered on a case-by-case basis, such as the type of breech presentation, the baby’s size, and the mother's health. With the right preparation, skilled care, and a clear understanding of the risks and benefits, vaginal breech birth can be a safe and empowering experience for those who wish to pursue it. Our midwives are experienced in assessing individual circumstances and will work closely with you to ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
We are committed to providing personalised care that respects your birth preferences. That said, not all midwives feel comfortable supporting breech birth at home, as it requires specialised knowledge and experience. Homebirth can only be offered when a skilled practitioner is available who feels confident in supporting a breech birth. We take the time to thoroughly discuss the options, risks, and evidence surrounding breech birth, empowering you to make decisions that align with your values. Whether you decide to attempt a vaginal breech birth or pursue other options, we will be there to advocate for your choices, ensuring you receive the care you deserve with compassion and respect for your autonomy.
What is Breech Presentation?
A breech presentation occurs when the baby is positioned bottom or feet down instead of head-down as in a typical birth. Breech presentations happen in about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies. Although less common, breech births are possible and can be safe with the right care and consideration. There are three primary types of breech positions:
- Frank Breech: The baby’s bottom is down with legs extended upward, often with the feet near the head.
- Complete Breech: The baby’s bottom is down with the legs crossed in a sitting position.
- Footling Breech: One or both feet are positioned below the bottom, which may pose additional challenges.
Understanding the type of breech presentation is an important factor in determining the best approach to labour and delivery.
What to Consider with Breech Birth
Breech births are unique, and there are several important factors to consider when deciding how to approach a breech birth. These factors include:
- Type of Breech Presentation: Some breech positions, such as footling breech, may carry higher risks and may require more specialised care.
- Maternal Health: The health of the mother, including any pre-existing medical conditions, can influence the decision-making process.
- Gestational Age: Breech presentations are more common in the earlier stages of pregnancy. By 37 weeks, the likelihood of the baby turning to a head-down position naturally decreases.
- Estimated Fetal Weight: A predicted fetal weight of under the 10th centile, or over 3.8kg may pose additional risks if attempting a vaginal birth.
- Previous Births: If you have had previous caesarean births or complicated deliveries, this may affect the decision-making process for a breech birth.
Each pregnancy and breech presentation is different. That’s why we take a thorough, individualised approach to assess your unique situation and support you in making an informed choice about your birth plan.
Your Options for Breech Birth
When facing a breech presentation, you have several options. We are here to guide you through these options and empower you to make the decision that feels right for you.
- Vaginal Breech Birth: For some families, vaginal breech birth can be a safe and empowering choice. Whether or not this option is suitable depends on several factors, including the type of breech presentation, the baby’s size, and the mother’s health. Our experienced midwives are skilled in supporting breech birth where appropriate and will work with you to provide the best care possible. It is important to note that not all midwives feel comfortable or experienced enough to support a breech birth at home, and we will only offer this option when a skilled practitioner is available to assist.
- External Cephalic Version (ECV): In some cases, a procedure called an External Cephalic Version (ECV) can be performed. This is a gentle procedure in which an obstetrician attempts to turn the baby to a head-down position. While not always successful, ECV may be an option if the breech presentation is detected early enough, typically around 37 weeks of pregnancy.
- Caesarean Birth: For some families, a caesarean section may be the recommended option, particularly if a vaginal breech birth carries higher risks. A caesarean section may be advised if the breech presentation is not favourable for vaginal delivery, or if there are concerns for the baby’s or mother’s health.
We will discuss the risks and benefits of each option with you, helping you navigate the decision-making process with confidence and clarity.
Homebirth & Breech Birth
Homebirth can be a deeply meaningful and empowering option for some families. However, not all midwives are comfortable supporting breech birth at home. Breech birth requires specialised skills and careful monitoring to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Therefore, homebirth can only be offered for breech presentation when a highly skilled practitioner, with the appropriate expertise in breech birth, is available.
At Private Midwives, we believe that safety is paramount. We will carefully evaluate your specific situation and ensure that any homebirth options are supported by a skilled midwife who has the training and experience to provide the safest care possible. If homebirth is not a viable option for breech presentation in your case, we will work closely with you to explore other options for your birth plan, including the possibility of a hospital setting or other birthing environments.
Supporting You Through Informed Decision Making
Our primary goal is to provide you with the information, support, and expertise needed to make the best decision for you and your baby. We are committed to respecting your personal preferences and empowering you to make decisions based on clear, evidence-based information.
Throughout your journey, we will take the time to discuss your options thoroughly, answer any questions you may have, and ensure that you feel confident and informed. Whether you decide to pursue a vaginal breech birth, attempt an ECV, or choose a caesarean birth, we are here to offer guidance, support, and care in alignment with your birth preferences.
More On Births
Client Information Booklet
If you would like to know more information of what you can expect from us before making a booking please have a look at our client information booklet
See the Resource Library
Take a look at our resource library for guides on planning your birth, antenatal & postnatal plans of care, water births and much more.
Private Midwives Awards
We have been awarded the Winner of the Best Midwifery Service 2024 at the M&A Today Globabl Awards
We're also delighted to have been announced as the winner in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion category at the Gamechangers Progress Champion Awards 2023 for both the UK and Ireland.
Thanks to all our midwives, office staff, our clients, our voters and nominators. We couldn't do any of this without you.
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Telephone:
UK: 0800 3800 579
R.O.I 1800 937 119
Email:
info@privatemidwives.com
Copyright © 2021 Private Midwives
The Heath Business Centre, Runcorn, WA7 4QX
Website development by Arise Media
Copyright © 2021 Private Midwives
The Heath Business Centre,
Runcorn, WA7 4QX
Website development by Arise Media