Breech Baby

[Jellybaby13]

Hi,

37+5 weeks pregnant and my baby is breech. Tried an ECV two days ago and after three attempts they gave up because she wasn't budging. So, now I'm booked in for c-section on the 17th! (Terrified isn't the word!)

Anyway, if baby was to flip around at this point, what can I expect the signs to be? She's frank breech so her head has always been under my right rib and feet under my left.

Would I notice her turning? Would it be a gradual turn or a flip in one go? Anyone else had the same experience where they turned this late in the game? Midwives said it was highly unlikely at this point but yeah...

Our local hospital scan you the day of your section if the only reason is breech so even if you don't notice, it should get picked up.

Don't be terrified! It'll be ok. I had a planned section with my first dc for the exact same reason as you've described.
Yes, it wasn't something I'd ever thought about, my idea of having my first child definitely did not include the chance of a csection.

I was told about 9 days prior to the "date", and I too wondered if he'd turn in between. He didn't. I'm pretty sure I'd have noticed too, because he was a real wriggler!

My son's birth was very positive experience. Very calm. The operating theatre staff were lovely and very laid back - probably because it wasn't an emergency - and talked me through what was happening at each step. My DH could plan to take the day off work to accompany me and was present at the birth - striking my hair and sharing the excitement.

Speak to your midwife about any concerns. You're not the first to feel apprehensive, and although csections are common, they can be daunting.

Although when I went into labour with my second DC, THAT freaked me out more.

I'm sure you've already come across this website, but if not this is an amazing resource: spinningbabies.com/learn-more/baby-positions/breech/flip-a-breech/

I'm not sure what the actual evidence of reflexology/acupuncture is, but there are anecdotes of success - so this could be something worth looking into if it appeals and is available in your area. (On a side note, I had reflexology for a different issue and if you love your feet being massaged it is so relaxing...so worth it for that alone imho ).

Lastly, even if you have a planned c-section you can still have your preferences met. E.g. you can request dimmed lights, your own music, immediate skin-to-skin, delayed cord clamping etc. You can even request a gentle/natural c-section - worth looking at a few videos of this.

Thanks all.

I think baby may have now turned, can't feel a rounded bit by my ribs anymore...however she could have just dropped into my pelvis because it seems like my pelvic girdle pain has gotten a lot worse over the last two days 🤷🏼‍♀️