Breech birth

Breech birth is childbirth in which the baby emerges buttocks or feet first rather than head first. It can occur vaginally or by cesarean birth.

Fetal presentation: Fetal presentation is the part of a fetus positioned to enter the birth canal first. Breech birth is one presentation, defined by the buttocks or feet entering first.
External cephalic version: External cephalic version is a procedure that uses pressure on the abdomen to turn a fetus head-down. It may change a breech presentation before labor and reduce the chance of breech birth.
Fetal lie: Fetal lie describes the direction of the fetus's long axis relative to the pregnant person's long axis. Lie helps describe the orientation associated with a breech presentation.
Cephalic presentation: Cephalic presentation is a fetal position in which the head is positioned to enter the birth canal first. It is the usual presentation and the direct contrast to breech birth.
Frank breech: Frank breech is a fetal position with hips flexed and legs extended upward toward the head. This common breech position presents the buttocks while keeping the feet near the head.
Cesarean section: Cesarean section is childbirth through surgical incisions in the abdomen and uterus. It is a common planned alternative to vaginal breech birth, depending on clinical circumstances.
Prematurity: Prematurity is birth before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. Breech presentation is more common among fetuses born prematurely.
Shoulder presentation: Shoulder presentation is a transverse fetal position in which a shoulder lies over the cervix. Unlike breech, the shoulder rather than the buttocks or feet may present first.
Complete breech: Complete breech is a fetal position with hips and knees flexed, so the fetus sits cross-legged. The flexed legs distinguish this breech type from frank and footling positions.
Planned vaginal breech birth: Planned vaginal breech birth is an intended vaginal delivery when the fetus remains breech. It is an option for selected pregnancies with appropriate expertise and monitoring.

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