Breech presentations: Understanding and taking action
Did you know that about one in every 25 pregnancies is a breech presentation? That is, by the buttocks, feet or leg, rather than by the head? This position, known as breech presentation, is one of the most common reasons for Caesarean sections. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a 15% C-section rate is considered acceptable. In North America, however, this rate rises to 22%. A natural, non-invasive solution, such as chiropractic care, could help reduce this figure by helping to reposition the baby.
What are intrauterine constraints?
Intrauterine constraints are forces external to the fetus that limit its movements and, in some cases, prevent it from turning upside down after the 32nd week of pregnancy. These constraints may be caused by an imbalance in the mother’s pelvis or sacrum, resulting in muscular and ligamentary tension. These imbalances also disrupt neurological signals between the nervous system and the structures of the pelvis and uterus, making the baby’s natural repositioning more difficult.
Chiropractic techniques: a safe approach
Webster and Bagnell techniques are specific chiropractic methods designed to optimize pelvic mobility. They also aim to relax muscles and ligaments. By reducing intra-uterine stresses, they enable the baby to reposition for vaginal delivery. These adjustments, adapted for pregnant women, are entirely safe for both mother and fetus.
According to a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the Webster technique has an 81% success rate. However, early treatment, between the 30th and 36th week of pregnancy, maximizes the chances of success.
The right care for every pregnancy
What’s more, before consulting a chiropractor, it’s important to check with your doctor or midwife whether a physiological cause, such as a bicornuate uterus, explains the breech presentation. If no abnormality is detected, the chiropractor may consider chiropractic care. In addition, he or she may suggest specific exercises to help maintain the baby’s ideal position.
Thanks to natural solutions that respect the biomechanics of pregnant women, chiropractors offer a safe, comprehensive approach to pregnancy care.
Visit the clinic nearest you:
- Chiropractic – Chelsea Gatineau (secteur Hull)
- Chiropractic – Vaudreuil-Dorion
- Chiropractic – Mirabel
- Chiropractic – Valleyfield
- Chiropractic – Québec (Duberger-Les-Saules)
- Chiropractic – Boucherville
- Chiropractic – Trois-Rivières
