How to Understand Breech Positions
One type of fetal presentation is called the breech presentation. Breech presentation is commonly known as buttocks first, but there are actually four variations of breech positions. Some doctors and midwives will allow a mother to attempt labor with a breech in hopes the baby will turn, but few may actually agree to deliver a breech baby. Here are steps to understanding breech positions.
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Instructions
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Your doctor or midwife can most often determine if your baby is breech by palpating your abdomen. He or she will press down on your abdomen, and by feeling big and small parts, will determine which position your baby is lying. If there is any concern about a breech presentation, a vaginal exam can be done.
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It is easy to assume when you hear "breech" that your baby is coming butt first, but that isn't always the case. Your baby can be in a variety of breech positions. Ask your midwife or doctor to tell you exactly which type of breech your baby is in.
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The first breech position is called the complete breech. This means that your baby is, indeed, buttocks first and his legs are either crossed (as in Indian style sitting) or his knees are pulled up close to his chest.
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The second breech position is called the frank breech. This means that your baby is buttocks first and his legs are extended towards his head. Babies that are born via cesarean who have been in a frank breech position may still keep their legs straight for a while.
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The third type of breech position is called the footling breech. This means that your baby has one leg extended towards the cervix and the other leg is generally bent up towards the chest.
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The fourth type of breech position is called a kneeling breech. This means that your baby has both knees extended towards the cervix.
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Tips & Warnings
If your doctor or midwife determines that your baby is in a breech position, ask what his or her policy is. Will they allow you to go into labor or will they want to schedule a cesarean?
You should also ask your doctor or midwife what things you can do to try and encourage the baby to change the position.
