The fetus lies longitudinally with the buttocks presenting in the lower pole of the uterus
Types of breech presentation
There are three types of breech presentation: complete, incomplete, and frank.
Complete breech is when both of the baby's knees are bent and his feet and bottom are closest to the birth canal.
Incomplete breech is when one of the baby's knees is bent and his foot and bottom are closest to the birth canal.
Frank breech is when the baby's legs are folded flat up against his head and his bottom is closest to the birth canal.
There is also footling breech where one or both feet are presenting.
Associations and Causes
Maternal factors
Types of breech presentation
There are three types of breech presentation: complete, incomplete, and frank.
Complete breech is when both of the baby's knees are bent and his feet and bottom are closest to the birth canal.
Incomplete breech is when one of the baby's knees is bent and his foot and bottom are closest to the birth canal.
Frank breech is when the baby's legs are folded flat up against his head and his bottom is closest to the birth canal.
There is also footling breech where one or both feet are presenting.
Associations and Causes
Maternal factors
- Polyhydraminos
- Uterine anomalies (bicornuate, septate)
- space occupying lesions (e.g fibroids)
- Placental abnormalities (praevia, cornual)
- contracted maternal pelvis
- Multiparity (in particular grand multips)
Fetal factors
- prematurity
- fetal anomalies (e.g neurological, hydrocephalus, anenecephaly)
- multiple pregnancy
- fetal death
- short umbilical cord
Diagnosis
Ultrasound scan will confirm diagnosis
Risk Factors for Breech Position
Ultrasound scan will confirm diagnosis
Risk Factors for Breech Position
At term, about 3.5% of babies will be breech. If a baby
is born premature, they are more likely to be breech at delivery. Other
risk factors for having a breech baby include:
- Having too much or too little amniotic fluid
- Carrying more than one baby
- Having an abnormally shaped uterus or other uterine abnormalities
- Having a previous breech baby
- Placenta previa
- Having a baby with certain birth defects
Complications of breech
A prolapsed umbilical cord is common
in breech deliveries. This happens when part of the umbilical cord slips
down through the cervix before the baby does. The cord is then
compressed during contractions, which cuts down on blood flow to the
baby. An emergency cesarean section is usually needed
A prolapsed umbilical cord is common
in breech deliveries. This happens when part of the umbilical cord slips
down through the cervix before the baby does. The cord is then
compressed during contractions, which cuts down on blood flow to the
baby. An emergency cesarean section is usually needed
