5 Ways to Flip a Breech Baby

When my doctor told me that my baby was still in the breech position when I was 35 weeks along, I was devastated. Not only did I have an unusually large baby, but I also had a high level of amniotic fluid (a condition called polyhydramnios), which meant one thing:
It was very unlikely that my baby would turn head down.
After three vaginal births and the result of those births–my three young children at home–I was terrified to face a c-section, so I got to work, researching ways to flip a breech baby and trying everything I could think of.
And the result?
It worked!
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One week later, my baby had turned, and I was breathing a huge sigh of relief at the prospect of skipping over that c-section. Here's what I did to flip my baby.

Try the hands and knees position
Whether you just plop down on you hands and knees while watching your favorite TV show or get a little more adventurous by trying this position in the bedroom, spending some time on all fours could help the baby rotate into position.

Peppermint oil
I have no idea if this is an official remedy or not, but I came across it on another pregnant woman's blog, and she swore by it. Combine 1-3 drops of essential peppermint oil with some coconut oil and slather it across your stomach. Be prepared for an active baby and a burst of energy on your part. Spoiler alert: Don't do it right before bedtime, this I learned the hard way.
Always consult your doctor before using supplements, due to risk of allergy or interactions.

The pool
I can't say enough about this super scientific method, but if you have access to a pool, use it to your full advantage. I did somersaults, hung upside down off the side, and did more handstands than a nine-month-pregnant woman should ever do.
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The couch
I visited the Spinning Babies website to find this tip, and it's commonly touted as being one of the most effective. Basically, pile a bunch of pillows on the floor and prop your bottom up on the couch with your head lower than your body. Repeat as often as you can.

Visit a chiropractor
Although visiting a chiropractor can be really important during your pregnancy no matter what, you may want to especially consider it if you have a breech baby. If your hips are out of line or there are other issues, it may be preventing your baby from getting into the head-down position. Your chiropractor can perform the Webster's method or recommend acupressure or other natural remedies as well. Always check with your care provider before trying any of these remedies.
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Did you have a breech baby? What did you do try to flip him or her into the head-down position?
My daughter was breeched and I also tried everything listed in this article, however, she did not turn. I was trying to avoid a c-section because I have crohns and wanted to avoid the scar tissue. After seeing a chiropractor for the Webster technique, I began to limp and had very uncomfortable pain in my hips. I had a an amazing pregnancy up until then and I regret trying to flip her. The c-section was beautiful and calm and did not feel sterile and unnatural. Don’t fret if your baby doesn’t turn.
ReplyThis is the first article from Everyday Family that I have actually connected with in months. I was actually just thinking about unsubscribing the other day. As a naturally minded mama, this is the kind of thing I want to see. Most of the other content is frivolous and way too conventional for me! Keep this up, please!
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