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There are some uncommon birth defects which can cause breech presentations, but more frequently it is idiopathic (meaning nothing wrong), or due to obstructions in the uterus like fibroids or the placenta getting in the way.
Breech presentations come in three types: frank breech (legs straight up toward the head); complete breech (legs folded); and incomplete, or footling (like a complete, but with a foot leading the way). While all could potentially be delivered vaginally, the frank breech is the safest to deliver that way.
Many times an external cephalic version (ECV) can be attempted at 36-38 weeks gestational age. This is a procedure where the mother is mildly sedated and an attempt is made to turn the baby by pushing on the mother's abdomen. This is successful 70-80% of the time, but runs the risk of causing fetal distress and a possible cesarean section.
Babies who are delivered after a breech presentation should have their hips checked carefully for potential hip dislocation.
By David L. Fay, M.D.
Content provided on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be construed to be medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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