What is a breech baby? Helping find peace & ease through natures process.

Gentle Reminder for Expecting Moms

Hearing that your baby is “breech” can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. About 3–4% of babies remain in the breech position near the end of pregnancy. Understanding what it means, why it happens, and what you can do can bring peace of mind as you prepare for birth.

What Does “Breech” Mean?

A breech baby is one who is positioned bottom or feet down in the uterus, instead of the typical head-down position that’s ideal for birth.

There are several types of breech positions:

• Frank breech: Baby’s bottom is down, with legs extended upward toward the head.

• Complete breech: Baby’s bottom is down, with legs folded at the knees.

• Footling breech: One or both feet point downward to enter the birth canal first.

Why Do Some Babies Stay Breech?

Most babies turn head-down on their own between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy. When they don’t, it may be due to:

• Uterine shape or tone – some wombs have structural variations.

• Tight or imbalanced ligaments – pelvic or uterine tension can limit baby’s space to turn.

• Multiple pregnancies – twins or triplets make positioning more complex.

• Placental location – a low-lying placenta may affect rotation.

• Too much or too little amniotic fluid – fluid balance influences baby’s movement.

How Breech Position Can Affect Birth

• Breech positioning may make vaginal delivery more complicated, depending on the type.

• Many providers recommend C-section for persistent breech babies, though some are trained in breech vaginal birth.

• A breech baby isn’t “wrong” — it’s simply a variation that may need extra support.

Gentle, Natural Approaches to Encourage Baby to Turn

Many moms explore safe, non-invasive ways to encourage a breech baby to rotate before delivery:

• Chiropractic care (Webster Technique): Balances the pelvis and relaxes ligaments, giving baby more room to move.

• Spinning Babies® techniques: Specific exercises and positions that open the pelvis and encourage rotation.

• Forward-leaning positions: Kneeling with hips elevated and chest lowered helps baby shift.

• Swimming or gentle movement: Upright activity promotes space and mobility.

• Acupuncture or moxibustion: Traditional methods some mothers find helpful.

(Always consult your healthcare provider before trying new approaches.)

Nervous System Connection

When the pelvis and surrounding ligaments are imbalanced, the nervous system may stay in a stressed, “fight-or-flight” state. This can affect uterine tone and make it harder for baby to find the most comfortable position. Gentle chiropractic adjustments support nervous system regulation, helping mom’s body relax and creating space for baby to turn naturally.

FAQ: Breech Babies

Q: When should I be concerned about breech position?A: Before 32 weeks, it’s common for babies to flip positions. After 36 weeks, your provider may discuss options if your baby hasn’t turned.

Q: Can breech babies still be born vaginally?A: Some breech births are possible vaginally, but it depends on the type of breech, your provider’s training, and your comfort level.

Q: How can chiropractic care help?A: Techniques like Webster are designed to balance the pelvis and ligaments, reduce stress, and create more space for baby to turn.

Closing Encouragement

Finding out your baby is breech can feel stressful, but it’s not your fault — and you have options. With gentle care, movement, and support, many babies turn head-down before birth. And even if your little one stays breech, you and your care team can still prepare for a safe, healthy delivery.

At Electric Life Chiropractic in Indianapolis, we love helping moms feel supported, balanced, and confident during pregnancy — wherever your baby’s journey takes you.