What is an external cephalic version?
This procedure is an external method of rotating your baby from a breech (buttocks-first) presentation to a vertex (head-first) presentation for vaginal delivery. The physician maneuvers the baby by pushing on the abdomen and pushing the baby into position.
What is the purpose?
The most favorable position for vaginal delivery of your baby is vertex (head-first). This procedure is a means of reaching that presentation. In most cases, a cesarean section will need to be performed for breech presentation.
How long does the procedure take?
The length of time depends on how easily the baby is able to be moved into position.
What are the preparations?
First, you change into a gown and lie on the bed. An intravenous (iv) is started and some blood samples may be taken. A non-stress test is performed to assess the baby's activity. An ultrasound and a pelvic exam are performed to determine the baby's position. A medication that relaxes your uterus is administered during the procedure. Clear gel is placed over the abdomen during the procedure.
What happens during the procedure?
By pushing firmly on your abdomen, your doctor attempts to turn your baby to a vertex position. You may experience discomfort from this pressure. Be sure to tell your doctor if the discomfort becomes too intense. The position of the baby is frequently checked with portable sonograms until the desired position is reached or the attempt is abandoned.
Is there any special care afterwards?
After the procedure, the medication is discontinued. External fetal monitoring is continued for another hour. Blood samples may be drawn again to compare with the initial results. You should be followed closely every week in the clinic or your doctor's office.
Click here for OB/GYN Services Information
Last Updated: September 28, 2009