External Cephalic Version

When, near the end of pregnancy, the baby remains bottom-down, what we call a breech presentation, there is a technique that can be considered to try to help them turn head-down: External Cephalic Version (ECV).

ECV is performed by obstetricians using manual manoeuvres on the mother's belly, seeking to gently guide the baby from a breech position to a head-down (cephalic) position. In Portugal, the Portuguese Society of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommends that it should be considered from 36 weeks onwards, in pregnant women who meet the conditions for it to be carried out.

And does it always work?

Around half of the attempts are successful: the Portuguese guideline reports success rates between 49 and 58%. There are several factors that can make it more or less likely for the baby to manage to turn.

This manoeuvre is performed in a hospital setting, where it is possible to assess the baby before, during and after the procedure. Although it is considered a safe technique, it is important to know its benefits, risks and likelihood of success before deciding to go ahead with it; this information should be provided by the healthcare professional who is supporting you.