Breech presentation occurs when baby is presenting ‘bottom first'.
Although it is a common finding earlier in pregnancy, only 3-5 % of fetuses are still breech at term. It is more likely in presence of multiple pregnancies, any structural defect in the baby or in the uterus or in those with low lying placenta.
As vaginal breech delivery is associated with increased risk of injury to the baby, the current practice is to try and turn the baby while it is still inside the womb. This procedure is called external cephalic version and is carried out around 36-37 weeks of gestation.
If the procedure is unsuccessful or if the patient does not wish to try it, the recommended mode of delivery is by Caesarean section.