External Cephalic Version

What is external cephalic version?

External cephalic version is the changing of a baby’s position in the uterus by manipulation of the mother’s abdomen. Usually it is done to turn a breech baby to a vertex (headfirst) position. A breech baby’s bottom or feet are in position to come out before the head during delivery though the birth canal. Such a delivery may be hazardous. For example, the baby’s head may become trapped in the mother’s cervix. If the baby is moved to a headfirst position, you may avoid having a vaginal breech delivery or cesarean section.