Breech Birth: A Complete Guide for Expecting Parents

Breech Birth

by Nicole Galan

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	215 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	62 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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By Nicole Galan

Breech birth is a type of birth in which the baby is positioned with their feet or bottom first, rather than their head. Breech births can be vaginal or cesarean, and they come with their own set of risks and benefits.

If you are expecting a breech baby, it is important to be informed about all of your options. This book will provide you with everything you need to know about breech birth, from the risks and benefits to the different delivery options. You will also learn about the latest research on breech birth and how to advocate for your own and your baby's health.

Table of Contents

• Chapter 1: What is Breech Birth?
• Chapter 2: The Risks and Benefits of Breech Birth
• Chapter 3: The Different Delivery Options for Breech Babies
• Chapter 4: Advocating for Your Own and Your Baby's Health
• Chapter 5: The Latest Research on Breech Birth

Chapter 1: What is Breech Birth?

Breech birth is a type of birth in which the baby is positioned with their feet or bottom first, rather than their head. Breech births can be vaginal or cesarean.

There are two types of breech presentations:

• Frank breech: The baby's legs are extended straight up and their feet are next to their ears.
• Complete breech: The baby's legs are bent at the knees and their feet are near their buttocks.

Breech births are more common in women who have had previous breech births, women who are carrying twins or multiples, and women who have a low-lying placenta. Breech births are also more likely to occur in babies who are premature or have certain birth defects.

Chapter 2: The Risks and Benefits of Breech Birth

Breech births come with their own set of risks and benefits.

Risks of Breech Birth

• Umbilical cord compression: The umbilical cord can become compressed during a breech birth, which can lead to a lack of oxygen to the baby.
• Premature birth: Breech babies are more likely to be born prematurely, which can increase their risk of health problems.
• Low birth weight: Breech babies are often smaller than babies who are born headfirst, which can increase their risk of health problems.
• Birth defects: Breech babies are more likely to have certain birth defects, such as spina bifida and clubfoot.

Benefits of Breech Birth

• Vaginal breech birth is possible: In some cases, it is possible to deliver a breech baby vaginally. Vaginal breech birth is less risky than cesarean birth for both the mother and the baby.
• Cesarean birth is safe: If a vaginal breech birth is not possible, cesarean birth is a safe option for delivering a breech baby. Cesarean birth is a major surgery, but it is usually successful and the risks to the mother and the baby are low.

Chapter 3: The Different Delivery Options for Breech Babies

There are two main delivery options for breech babies: vaginal breech birth and cesarean birth.

Vaginal Breech Birth

Vaginal breech birth is possible in some cases, but it is more risky than cesarean birth. Vaginal breech birth is usually only attempted if the baby is small, the mother is not overweight, and the baby is in a frank breech position.

During a vaginal breech birth, the doctor will first try to turn the baby's head down. If this is not possible, the doctor will deliver the baby's feet and buttocks first. The doctor will then gently guide the baby's head and shoulders out of the birth canal.

Cesarean Birth

Cesarean birth is a major surgery, but it is usually successful and the risks to the mother and the baby are low.

During a cesarean birth, the doctor will make an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus. The doctor will then deliver the baby through the incision.

Chapter 4: Advocating for Your Own and Your Baby's Health

If you are expecting a breech baby, it is important to be informed about all of your options and to advocate for your own and your baby's health. Here are some tips for advocating for your own and your baby's health:

• Talk to your doctor or midwife about your options. Make sure you understand all of your options and the risks and benefits of each option.
• Get a second opinion. If you are not comfortable with the advice you are getting from your doctor or midwife, get a second opinion from another doctor or midwife.
• Be prepared to ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor or midwife any questions that you have. The more you know about your options, the better you will be able to make decisions about your care.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel like something is not right, don't hesitate to speak up. You are the best advocate for your own and your baby's health.

Chapter 5: The Latest Research on Breech Birth

The latest research on breech birth is promising. A study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that vaginal breech birth is safe and successful in most cases. The study found that the risk of

Breech Birth

by Nicole Galan

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	215 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	62 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE