Breech position is the term used to describe the positioning of a baby in the uterus of a soon-to-be mother in which the buttocks of the baby have entered the birth canal ahead of the head. The most common type of breech position is known as frank breech, in which the baby’s legs are folded up toward the chest, and the buttocks are lower than the head. While this is a relatively common occurrence, breech positions can pose serious risks to the health of both the mother and the infant.
1. Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
The umbilical cord is an important part of the fetus and the mother’s placenta. It provides essential nutrition and oxygen. In a breech position, the umbilical cord may be located too close to the infant’s buttocks, which can make it prone to being compressed during delivery. If the cord is compressed, the infant may not receive enough oxygen and the blood supply to the fetus may be cut off, resulting in serious complications, including fetal death.
2. Cord Knots
In some cases, the umbilical cord may be too long and wrap around the limbs or neck of the baby. This can lead to cord knots, which can compromise the baby’s circulation and increase the risk of fetal death. Even if the cord is not tied into a knot, it can become too tight, resulting in decreased circulation and oxygen supply to the baby.
3. Abnormal Compression Of The Head
In a breech position, the baby’s head may be pressed up against the mother’s cervix or pelvis, which can lead to abnormal compression of the head. This can cause decreased blood flow to the brain, resulting in serious complications such as brain damage. It can also cause the skull to deform, which can make delivery more difficult.
4. Injury Due To Misalignment Of The Body
During delivery, the baby may not be properly aligned with the mother’s birth canal. This can result in the baby’s body being misaligned with the mother’s, which can make delivery more difficult and can cause injury to the baby, including skull fractures. In some cases, the baby may become lodged in the birth canal, which can cause labor to last longer and lead to further complications.
5. Increased Risk Of Delivery Complications
Breech positions increase the risk of delivery complications, including vaginal tears, incontinence, and perineal tears. Additionally, certain types of breech positions, such as complete breech, can place more pressure on the mother’s pelvic muscles, which can increase the chances of delivery complications.
The risks associated with breech positions can be serious and can potentially be life-threatening. It is important for soon-to-be mothers to discuss any concerns they have with their doctor and to understand the risks associated with each type of breech position. Proper monitoring throughout the pregnancy and the delivery can help to reduce the risks associated with breech births.