How Late Can Breech Twins Turn?

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can be challenging as well. Especially when you are carrying twins, there are a lot of things that you need to be careful about. One of the things that can cause concern is when one or both of your twins are in the breech position. In this article, we will discuss how late can breech twins turn, and what you can do about it.

What is Breech Presentation?

When a baby is in the breech position, it means that the baby’s buttocks or feet are facing downwards, and the head is up. This is not the ideal position for delivery, and it can cause complications during childbirth. Breech presentation occurs in about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies, and it is more common in twins.

When Do Breech Twins Turn?

Breech twins can turn at any time during pregnancy, but it is more common for them to turn in the second trimester. By the time you reach the third trimester, most babies settle into the head-down position, which is the best position for delivery. However, some babies, including breech twins, may not turn until the very end of pregnancy.

What Are the Risks of Breech Presentation?

Breech presentation can increase the risk of complications during delivery, such as cord prolapse, head entrapment, and birth injuries. It can also increase the risk of cesarean delivery, which is a major surgical procedure that carries its own set of risks. Therefore, it is essential to identify breech presentation early and take appropriate measures to manage it.

How to Identify Breech Presentation?

Your doctor or midwife can identify breech presentation during a routine prenatal checkup. They will perform a physical exam to feel for the baby’s position. They may also order an ultrasound to confirm the baby’s position and check for any other abnormalities.

What Can You Do if You Have Breech Twins?

If you have breech twins, there are several things you can do to encourage them to turn head-down. Some of the options include:

1. External Cephalic Version (ECV)

ECV is a procedure where your doctor or midwife will try to turn your baby from the outside. They will use their hands to manipulate the baby’s position gently. ECV is usually done between 36-38 weeks of pregnancy and has a success rate of about 50%. However, it comes with some risks, such as premature labor, placental abruption, and fetal distress.

2. Acupuncture and Moxibustion

Acupuncture and moxibustion are alternative therapies that can help encourage babies to turn head-down. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, while moxibustion involves burning a specific herb near the baby’s toe. These therapies are safe and have no known side effects.

3. Pelvic Tilt Exercises

Pelvic tilt exercises can help create more space in your pelvis and encourage your baby to turn head-down. To perform this exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent, and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips up towards the ceiling and hold for a few seconds before lowering them back down. Repeat this exercise several times a day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breech presentation can be a cause for concern when carrying twins. However, with early identification and appropriate management, you can increase your chances of a safe and healthy delivery. Remember to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and choose the best course of action for you and your babies.