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EXThis medical procedure is called external cephalic version (ECV). It is performed near the end of pregnancy when a baby is positioned breech (bottom-first) or sideways in the womb, a position that often leads to a planned C-section delivery.
During the procedure, a doctor carefully places their hands on the mother’s abdomen and applies slow, controlled pressure to guide the baby into a head-down position, which is the safest position for a vaginal birth. Before starting, both the mother and baby are closely monitored. Medications may be given to relax the uterus, making the womb softer and allowing the baby to move more easily.
Because the baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid, it can sometimes be gently guided to rotate inside the uterus. Throughout the entire process, the baby’s heartbeat is continuously monitored to ensure the baby remains safe and comfortable.
If the baby successfully turns, it may allow the mother to have a normal vaginal delivery instead of surgery. However, if the baby shows any signs of distress or does not respond to the movement, the attempt is stopped immediately to protect both mother and child.
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