How effective is external cephalic version for breech baby?

During the procedure, a trained clinician applies firm pressure to the abdomen to encourage the baby to rotate. Ultrasound and fetal heart-rate monitoring help guide the attempt and check the baby before and afterwards. A successful turn may make a head-down vaginal birth more possible, although the baby can sometimes change position again.

The chance of a successful turn is influenced by factors such as whether this is a first pregnancy, the baby's position, the amount of amniotic fluid, the position of the placenta and how tense the abdominal muscles are. Your maternity team can explain how these features apply to you.

Ask when the procedure is suitable, where it will take place and whether you need to avoid food or drink beforehand. Tell the team about bleeding, contractions, fluid leakage, pain or any pregnancy complication. The team should explain alternatives if the baby remains breech, including how birth planning may change.

Read the [External Cephalic Version](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/external-cephalic-version/) information to review the procedure, monitoring and possible next steps.

Contact your maternity unit promptly after an attempt if you have vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, regular contractions, severe or persistent abdominal pain, or noticeably reduced fetal movement. These symptoms need assessment because they can signal a pregnancy complication, regardless of whether the baby turned.

Ask what your ultrasound shows about the baby's position, placenta and fluid; whether another attempt is appropriate; how fetal monitoring will be arranged; and what birth options will be discussed if the baby stays breech.