Breech Pregnancy Exercises

You may be able to convince your baby to get out of a breech position with some at-home exercises

A breech baby is in head up position, and, these days, it usually means an automatic cesarean section. Acupuncture, chiropractic visits and an external version (where the doctor tries to turn the baby) all have some amount of success, but women who would like to avoid a c-section can try a number of exercises at home that may help encourage the baby to turn.

Breech Tilt

A breech tilt is also known as the ironing board exercise. Grab an ironing board (or any sturdy length of wood). Place one end on the couch and the other on the floor (with a few pillows for cushioning). Carefully lie down on the board, with your feet up on the couch and your head near the floor. Do try this a couple times a day for 10 to 20 minutes. If this makes you dizzy or light-headed, decrease the angle and then increase it when you get used to it.

Inversion

You can do an inversion on the couch or stairs, alone or with a partner to help you. Keeping your chin tucked under, place your knees on a raised surface and place your hands on the floor below. Keep these exercises short (about 30 seconds). Repetition helps more than extended practice.

Crawling

Crawling on all fours, or on your elbows and knees, can help the baby turn. "Elephant walking," or walking on your hands and feet, is a more difficult version of this. Do either of these as frequently as you find feasible.

Swimming

Swimming is a relaxing exercise and will help loosen and strengthen your body. Standing on your hands under water for brief periods is sometimes helpful. If the pool is an approved diving depth, dive in a few times.

References

• Spinning Babies: Flip a Breech
• Gentle Birth: One Midwife's Collection of Breech Turning Techniques