For those dreaming of a natural birth, having a baby in an unsuitable position for this type of delivery can become quite an obstacle. That’s why many pregnant women ask their doctor the fateful question: at how many months does the baby turn in the womb? Until what week is it normal for the baby to move into the ideal position for a vaginal delivery? Let’s take a look below!
What Is the Ideal Position for Delivery?
The ideal position for a vaginal birth is the cephalic position, meaning head-down. When at the end of 39 weeks the baby is still in a different position, it may make a normal birth more difficult.
Unsuitable Positions for Birth
A baby that is breech1, or in a pelvic position2 (sitting), can make things very complicated for moms who want a vaginal delivery. If the baby is still sitting at 39 weeks, it’s likely that a cesarean delivery will be recommended even if the mother has all the conditions for a natural birth. Despite this, some humanistic doctors3 consider performing certain maneuvers so that the baby is born vaginally. A pelvic birth, as well as a breech birth, can happen without complications, however, the doctor and patient must be aware of all possible setbacks, yet it is doable even though it is considered unfeasible by medical standards.
Explanatory Video on Pelvic Birth
Until When Can the Baby Turn for Normal Birth?
Experts say that the baby can turn even at the time of delivery, but a favorable prognosis with the baby in the correct position before this moment will reassure the doctor and the mother-to-be. Usually, the baby turns between the 30th and 34th weeks of pregnancy, but some babies do so earlier or later than this timeframe. It is common for some babies to turn to the cephalic position at 35 to 37 weeks or 8-9 months of pregnancy. After this time, it becomes more difficult because of the baby’s size and the reduced space in the mother’s belly, although it is not impossible. Every case is different because every body is different.
Is There a Way to Help the Baby Turn?
Yes! Some exercises are appropriate to help the baby turn into the cephalic position, which is the ideal one for delivery, with the baby’s head aligned in the mother’s pelvis. Inverted sun salutation position: A famous yoga pose is the sun salutation, but in its inverted form, where you stretch your hands towards the floor or a mat and lift your hips with your legs bent. This pose can compress the abdomen and cause some discomfort when breathing, so ideally, it should be done for 5 minutes (or as long as you can manage, even less time), 3 to 5 times a day. Legs elevated position: With your knees and legs supported on a chair or sofa (making sure it won’t slip), let your head hang below the level of the furniture. It is recommended to use a pillow to support your head and keep your arms protecting your neck, making sure your arms, not your head, rest on the floor. Stay in this position for a maximum of 5 minutes and it can be repeated up to 3 times a day. Walking, dancing, and exercising: Walking helps a lot with getting the baby to turn. It also helps the baby move down towards the pelvic bone for engagement. So, walk as much as you can and are allowed to. If not cleared by your doctor, try walking, dancing, and doing other exercises. A good tip is water aerobics classes. The more you move, the better the chances your baby will turn.Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a great ally for pregnant women. Talk to a specialist and see if this treatment can be used for this purpose. Some safety tips: never do these exercises alone. The ideal is always to have someone with you, since pregnant women lose a bit of mobility because their center of gravity shifts with the growing belly.
Manual Fetal Version
Manual fetal version is possible! But it should only be performed by a specialist. Although it is effective, it is not 100% guaranteed to be successful, nor that the baby will stay in position after the maneuver. Also known as manual version, this maneuver should be performed up to the 39th week of pregnancy. Never let an unqualified professional attempt this maneuver, as problems can arise if it is not done properly, such as placental abruption.
Manual version video
If nothing works to turn the baby into the cephalic position, talk to your doctor about your chances of having a normal birth. Nothing is impossible, but the best advice is: trust your doctor, they will help you have your baby as safely as possible. Some women with wider pelvises can still have a normal delivery even with the baby sitting. Also, the baby shouldn’t be too big — the ideal weight is around 3.200kg. If it is deemed advisable, your doctor will help you try for a normal delivery regardless of the baby’s position, but if it is not possible, remember that having a cesarean is not the end of the world. Remember, a successful birth is when both mother and baby are 100% well after delivery. See also: Different and Interesting Types of Delivery
