The Lowdown on External Cephalic Version (ECV)
External Cephalic Version (ECV) is a procedure that is used to turn a baby from a breech position to a head-first position before birth. The purpose of this blog post is to provide a detailed overview of ECV, including what it is, how it is performed, and what to expect during the procedure and recovery.
What is External Cephalic Version (ECV)?
ECV is a procedure that is performed by an obstetrician to manually turn a baby from a breech position (when the baby’s bottom or feet are facing down) to a head-first position before birth. The procedure is typically done in a hospital setting and is usually performed between 37 and 40 weeks of pregnancy.
During the procedure, the obstetrician will use their hands to gently press on the mother’s abdomen to turn the baby. Ultrasound is used to confirm the baby’s position and monitor the baby’s heart rate throughout the procedure. ECV is typically done with the mother in a sitting or semi-sitting position.
The benefits of ECV include a reduced risk of a breech delivery and a reduced risk of complications during delivery. However, as with any medical procedure, there are also risks associated with ECV, such as discomfort during the procedure, bleeding, or decreased fetal heart rate.
Candidates for External Cephalic Version (ECV)
Not all women are eligible for ECV. A woman may be ineligible for ECV if she has certain medical conditions, such as placenta previa or a previous cesarean delivery. Additionally, a woman may be ineligible if the baby has certain conditions, such as a low birth weight or a cord prolapse.
It is important to note that the decision to perform ECV is ultimately up to the mother and her healthcare provider. They will take into account the mother’s health, the baby’s health, and any other relevant factors to determine if ECV is safe.
Preparation for External Cephalic Version (ECV)
Before the procedure, the mother will need to sign a consent form acknowledging the risks and benefits of ECV. Additionally, the mother may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period of time before the procedure.
During the procedure, the mother will be hooked up to a fetal monitor to monitor the baby’s heart rate. The obstetrician will then use their hands to gently press on the mother’s abdomen to turn the baby. The procedure typically takes around 20-30 minutes and can be uncomfortable, but is not typically painful.
After the procedure, the mother and baby will be monitored for any complications. The mother may experience some cramping or discomfort for a few days after the procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from ECV is typically quick, with most mothers returning to normal activities within a few days. However, it’s important to note that some mothers may experience cramping or discomfort for a few days after the procedure.
It is also important to monitor the baby’s movements and report any concerns to the healthcare provider. The mother may also be asked to return for a follow-up ultrasound to ensure that the baby is in the correct position.
ECV is a procedure that is used to turn a baby from a breech position to a head-first position before birth. The procedure is typically done in a hospital setting and is usually performed between 37 and 40 weeks of pregnancy. The benefits of ECV include a reduced risk of a breech delivery and a reduced risk of complications during delivery. However, as with any medical procedure, there are also risks associated with ECV. It is important for mothers to have a detailed conversation with their healthcare provider to determine if ECV is the right option for them.
During the procedure, it’s important to monitor the baby’s heart rate and the mother’s comfort. After the procedure, mothers may experience some cramping or discomfort for a few days, but recovery is typically quick.
It’s important for mothers to monitor their baby’s movements and report any concerns to their healthcare provider. A follow-up ultrasound may also be necessary to ensure that the baby is in the correct position.
In conclusion, ECV is a safe and effective procedure for turning breech babies to head-first position before birth. It is important for mothers to have a detailed conversation with their healthcare provider to determine if ECV is the right option for them, and to be prepared for the procedure and recovery process. Additional resources and information can be found by speaking with your healthcare provider or by researching online.
Katie Reed is a passionate writer and mother of four vivacious boys from Salt Lake City, Utah. Drawing from her own journey through TTC, pregnancy, and the joys of raising children, she offers a wealth of insight into the world of motherhood. Beyond her heartfelt tales, Katie delights her readers with family-friendly recipes, engaging crafts, and a curated library of printables for both kids and adults. When she’s not penning her experiences, you’ll find her crafting memories with her husband and sons—Dexter, Daniel, Chester, and Wilder.