For expectant mothers, the birth of their child is one of the most memorable experiences of their lives. However, while most childbirth techniques are well-known, there is a new technique that has been gaining momentum in recent years.

It is called the External Cephalic Version (ECV) and involves turning a breech baby in the womb.

What is a breech baby?

A breech baby is a fetus that is positioned feet-first or buttocks-first in the womb instead of head-first. This situation occurs in about 4% of full-term pregnancies. If the baby is breech, the risk of complications during delivery will increase.

That’s why it is crucial to correct the situation as soon as possible.

What is External Cephalic Version (ECV)?

External Cephalic Version (ECV) is a safe and effective procedure used to turn a breech baby before delivery. The technique involves manipulating the fetus from outside the mother’s abdomen into a head-down position using the hand.

Most medical professionals will recommend trying ECV as a first preference before resorting to surgical delivery. The procedure is best done between 36 and 38 weeks. Late in pregnancy, the fetus becomes too big and even the ECV process may not work.

How is ECV Procedure done?

The mother is usually given medication to relax the uterus, which makes the procedure easier and less painful. During the procedure, an obstetrician uses both hands on the mother’s abdomen to guide the fetus into a head-down position.

As they apply pressure to the abdomen, they gently rotate the baby. The procedure typically lasts no more than 20 minutes.

How Safe is the ECV Procedure?

The ECV procedure is safer compared to other methods of delivering a breech baby. Many mothers and babies have undergone the procedure with no adverse effects.

The risks of ECV occur when the baby’s heart rate drops or the umbilical cord becomes compressed. These complications usually resolved once the procedure ends.

What to expect before and after the ECV procedure?

Before the procedure, the mother is advised to eat lightly 12 hours before the procedure and skip breakfast on the day of the procedure to reduce the risk of aspiration during the process.

After the procedure, the mother is monitored for 20 minutes to ensure the baby’s vitals are stable.

If all is well, the patient returns home, but it is crucial to monitor the baby’s movements and report any abnormalities to the obstetrician.

What are the benefits of External Cephalic Version?

The primary benefit of ECV is the reduction of complications during labor. It lowers the risk of having an emergency cesarean section.

More specifically, ECV lowers the risk of preterm delivery, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, and the need for NICU admission. It could also avoid the complications associated with cesarean delivery.

What should one expect during recovery after the delivery?

Following delivery, the mother and baby will be monitored for 48 -72 hours after the procedure. Early ambulation is recommended to reduce the risk of blood clots, and the mother is advised to take pain relief medication as needed.

The mother will also be advised to do Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles and promote healing.

Conclusion

External Cephalic Version (ECV) is one of the many modern birth techniques that have emerged in recent years. The procedure is safe and effective and aims to reduce complications during childbirth.

Many mothers can avoid the complications associated with cesarean delivery, and babies can gain significant health benefits after the ECV procedure.

Therefore, women with breech pregnancies should consider the ECV technique before resorting to surgical delivery. Choose the right obstetrician to perform ECV procedures to ensure successful and safe management of breech births.