Breech babies were generally all born vaginally up until the 1970's. The move towards caesarean births started around this time, as improvements in medical technology and anaesthetics (such as
epidurals) made performing a caesarean safer, therefore a more viable option. Over the next 30 years or so, the rates of caesareans increased dramatically from around 5% to around 20 to 30%. Delivering breech babies by caesarean has contributed to some of this increase, as many caregivers preferred the operative alternative in an effort to try and avoid some of the possible complications a vaginal breech birth could lead to.
Vaginal breech births have continued to be offered as an option, usually by caregivers experienced in delivering breeches and generally if the woman and her baby fitted some pre-determined criteria, which include:
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Attempts to turn the breech baby to a head down position were unsuccessful, or not chosen. |
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The baby was estimated to be heavier than 2,500 grams (5lb 8oz) and lighter than 4000 grams (8lb 13 oz). |
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The baby was in a frank breech (baby's legs extended up with their feet near their ears) or a complete (or flexed) breech position, ie. baby's legs down, and crossed over. This decreased the chances of complications, such as cord prolapse. Positions are explained in depth in types of breech positions. |
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The caregiver was experienced in delivering breech babies vaginally. |
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The woman was keen to have a vaginal birth. |
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The woman's pelvis is believed to be an adequate size. |
Of women who plan a vaginal breech, about 55% end up having one. The remaining 45% require a caesarean, usually because the labour does not progress.