By the time you’re 36 weeks pregnant, most babies turn head down to get ready for birth. But some babies might lie bottom first (called “breech”) or lay sideways in your belly (called transverse/oblique).
If your baby isn’t head down, your midwife might suggest a scan and a discussion with a doctor. They can help you decide if you want to try turning your baby with an External Cephalic Version (ECV), have a vaginal birth with baby bottom first, or have a caesarean birth (a operation).
Options for turning your baby:
1. Moxibustion:
This is an old Chinese method. You burn a special herb stick (called a “moxa-stick”) near your toes when you’re 34-36 weeks pregnant. It can help turn the baby. It’s safe and works well for many people. If you want to know more, talk to your midwife or someone who does acupuncture.
2. External Cephalic Version (ECV):
Here, a doctor or trained midwife gently pushes on your tummy with their hands to help turn your baby. It works for about half of the women/birthing people who try it. It’s usually safe. But after this, a very small number (1 in 200) might need an emergency caesarean to have the baby. The baby’s health is checked before and after this method.
