If your caregiver thinks your baby is breech then it is quite important you have an ultrasound., especially if you are planning a vaginal birth as the type of
breech position will help determine if this is acceptable. An ultrasound will:
Confirm the baby's position
Determine the type of breech
Rule out obvious complications
Estimate the size of the baby
Estimate the fluid around the baby
Help predict the likely success of turning the baby
Confirming the baby's position. When your caregiver feels your belly they may suspect a breech baby. Sometimes the baby is actually head down, but it is difficult to tell because their head (or bottom) is deeply engaged. An ultrasound will confirm the position of your baby(s), which will help to plan for the birth.
Determining the type of breech. Knowing whether the baby is in a
frank,
complete or
footling breech position, or is a
Stargazer will help your caregiver determine if turning the baby is possible. It is also an important aspect when considering a vaginal birth. It may also be advantageous to know if you are at an increased risk of a
cord prolapse, in case your waters break before labour or a caesarean operation.
Ruling out obvious complications. An ultrasound can detect a low lying placenta or
placenta previa, a
bicornuate uterus or any obvious physical abnormalities of the baby. This may possibly show why the baby is in the breech position. If the placenta is low and at the front of the uterus, the ultrasound can help the caregiver know where to make an incision for a caesarean. It could also rule out an attempt to try and turn the baby physically, or before trying natural therapies to turn the baby.
Estimating the size of the baby. This practice is controversial in that ultrasounds are fairly inaccurate at estimating an unborn baby's size. Estimates can be up to + or - 500 to 700 grams out (1lb 2oz to 1lb 9oz).