Breech Babies & Chiropractic Care

As prenatal chiropractors, we often have patients come to us when their healthcare provider has informed them that their baby is in a breech position.

Many chiropractors assist pregnant clients with nausea, swelling, and sleep difficulties. Webster-certified chiropractors focus on correcting misalignments, or subluxations, to create more space in the pelvis, which may assist with labor and delivery.

Let's start with the basics... What is breech?

Breech is a variation of normal in-utero positioning, where the baby is positioned feet or bottom first instead of head down. There are several types of breech presentations. Its determination is often made through ultrasound or by a skilled healthcare provider's examination.

Having a breech position does not necessarily indicate that there is something wrong with you or your baby, but it may influence your delivery options. It is important to discuss your delivery options with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for you!

By the end of the third trimester, most babies typically move into a head-down position in preparation for birth. However, some babies may remain in a breech position, with their feet or buttocks closest to the birth canal. This can complicate the birthing process and often leads to a recommendation for a cesarean section (C-section). Several factors can contribute to a baby being in a breech position, such as uterine abnormalities, the location of the placenta, or the baby’s movements. Regardless of the cause, many mothers seek alternative methods to encourage their baby to turn naturally before delivery, and this is where a chiropractor who specializes in breech positioning can help.

How can chiropractic care help with breech?

While chiropractic care cannot turn breech babies, the Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment and analysis that may help promote pelvic balance and reduce tension, aiding the baby in getting into the best possible position. If you discover that your baby is breech and you'd like to encourage them to turn head-down for a better chance at a vaginal delivery, we recommend biweekly visits to our office. Our chiropractic care is safe and gentle, and we can modify our treatment to ensure you feel comfortable throughout your visit. 

Not every chiropractor is trained in the Webster technique. Instead, you’ll need to look for a certified practitioner. Being certified means that the chiropractor has attained 180 hours of additional education specific to Webster’s manipulations and has passed a certification exam. This technique serves as an alternative to the traditional external cephalic version, where doctors physically try to turn a breech baby. If you see a chiropractor for a breech presentation, they won’t attempt to turn your baby. Instead, they focus on adjusting your pelvis to create space, allowing your baby to move into an optimal position on their own.

The Webster technique is generally considered safe for most pregnancies. It can be beneficial throughout pregnancy and can serve as an intervention for babies in a breech position.

In addition to helping with breech presentation, the Webster technique may also alleviate:

• Leg pain

• Leg tightness

• Back pain

• Issues related to the birth canal (such as a narrow space)

What else can I do at home to help?

We recommend visiting the Spinning Babies website and starting with the Three Balances, particularly the forward-leaning inversion. All of our chiropractors at ANH Wellness are trained in Spinning Babies techniques and can guide you through each maneuver. Additionally, we suggest scheduling an appointment with one of our local acupuncturists. They have specific protocols for breech babies and may assist in encouraging your baby to move into a head-down position.

Remember, breech is a variation of normal. Talk to your provider about the best delivery options for you and your baby. If you discover that your baby is in a breech position, we recommend scheduling biweekly visits to our office. These visits can help improve pelvic biomechanics and reduce tension in the various soft tissue structures of the pelvis. Our experienced providers can assist in promoting pelvic mobility, ensuring both your comfort and that of your baby.

To Sum It Up

At ANH Wellness, we focus on assisting expectant mothers as they navigate the challenges of pregnancy, including issues related to breech presentation. Our gentle and targeted chiropractic care is designed to support the optimal positioning of your baby, which can increase the chances of a smoother and safer delivery.

Chiropractic care can be beneficial during all stages of pregnancy. Even if your baby is not diagnosed as breech, regular chiropractic adjustments can help ensure that your pelvis remains balanced and prepared for a healthy birth experience.

By: Dr. Megan Stavalone, CACCP

Webster & Perinatal Certified Chiropractor

VBAC Certified Birth Doula

Medical Disclaimer: All of the information in this blog is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used in its place. Please consult with your provider before using castor oil or any adjacent therapies.