Acupuncture for Breech Presentation

A breeched baby presentation is when the baby is positioned to be delivered feet or buttocks first instead of the usual head-down position. This situation is often identified in the third trimester. Types of breech presentations include frank breech, complete breech, and footling breech.

How Does Acupuncture Aid in Turning a Breeched Baby?

To turn a breech baby, Traditional Chinese Medicine uses moxibustion along with acupuncture. Moxibustion, involving heated moxa sticks from mugwort leaves, warms acupuncture points to stimulate fetal movement and encourage repositioning. Acupuncture complements this process.

Patients are also guided on home techniques for further effectiveness. Studies show about 70% success in turning breech babies with this method. If unsuccessful, external cephalic version is advised before labor.

When to Start Acupuncture for Breech Presentation

For breech presentation, starting acupuncture treatments as early as possible is recommended, ideally around 33 weeks or earlier. However, if you're past this point, it's not too late to begin. Even if treatments are started later, they can still be effective. We typically conduct daily sessions until the baby turns.