Buzz
If the due date is approaching and the baby has not turned its head to the normal position, mothers may face a breech birth, creating challenges for a natural delivery. As the delivery date nears, mothers often worry about whether the baby has turned and how to encourage a normal position.
Perhaps, mothers may not know that typically around 34 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus gradually changes its position to move down towards the pelvic area. This is a sign that the baby is preparing for a headfirst descent. When the baby turns its head down, you'll feel increased pressure and heaviness in the lower abdomen. As the delivery date approaches, the baby's head descends further, causing discomfort.
An optimal fetal position facilitates an easier childbirth
At this point, you should undergo an ultrasound to check if the fetal position is optimal and if the chances of a natural delivery are high. Some babies may present with the buttocks or legs first, while others may prefer to lie horizontally, placing their arms or hands across the birth canal. All these cases indicate a breech position. In a breech position, the baby can still be delivered through vaginal birth, but complications may arise, and in some cases, a cesarean section may be necessary.
In cases of breech presentation, doctors will advise you on techniques to rotate the fetal position. In fact, obstetricians have effective methods to successfully turn the baby. If you discover an abnormal fetal position, inform your doctor and inquire about methods to facilitate the rotation of the fetal position.
Here are some simple ways mothers can help facilitate fetal rotation:
1. Elevate Your Legs
Mothers should adopt this position from week 35 onwards. Lying with legs elevated and the body inclined towards the head is believed to aid in fetal rotation. It's recommended to practice this three times a day on an empty stomach to avoid acid reflux.
2. Foot Support
Perform this exercise from week 35 to easily alter the fetal position. Mothers should prop their feet on a pillow or cushion to prevent discomfort.
3. Swimming
During maternal swimming, the baby will gracefully rotate within the womb, favorably adjusting positions. Swimming also aids in maternal muscle relaxation and reduces pain during pregnancy.
4. Exercise with a Ball
Daily hip and buttock rotations with a ball assist the fetus in turning within the womb, facilitating an easy birth position.
5. Hot and Cold Method
An incredibly simple method: Dip a soft cloth in cold water, apply it to the abdominal skin, then re-soak the same cloth in moderately warm water and gently wipe it over the belly.
6. Introduce Music to the Baby
Mothers should engage in daily conversations with their baby, play music for them in the lower abdominal region, and encourage fetal movements. This may prompt the baby to turn its head towards the source of sound. Mothers should also encourage fathers to converse with the baby, making it easier for the baby to assume a favorable position for birth.
