The primary symptom of a breech baby is often noticing fetal movement patterns that are different from what you've experienced previously, especially in later stages of pregnancy. This can manifest as feeling kicks in the pelvis rather than under the ribs and/or feeling a hard lump near your ribs.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Altered Fetal Movement:
- Kicks felt lower in the abdomen: Instead of feeling kicks higher up near your ribs, you might feel them predominantly in your pelvic area or lower abdomen. This is because the baby's feet and legs are positioned downwards.
- Head felt near the ribs: You might feel a hard, round mass (the baby's head) near your ribs. This contrasts with the usual feeling of the buttocks in that area when the baby is head-down.
- Palpation by Healthcare Provider:
- During routine prenatal appointments, your doctor or midwife will palpate your abdomen to assess the baby's position. They may be able to identify the breech position through this physical examination. This is a more reliable method than relying solely on your perception.
It's important to note that:
- Not all women can tell if their baby is breech. First-time mothers or women with more abdominal fat might find it harder to discern the baby's position.
- The baby's position can change throughout pregnancy. It's common for babies to be breech early in pregnancy and then turn head-down later. The concern about breech presentation usually arises closer to the due date.
- Ultrasound is the most accurate way to confirm breech presentation. If there is any suspicion of a breech baby, an ultrasound scan can definitively determine the baby's position.
When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider:
If you suspect your baby is breech based on changes in fetal movement, it's essential to discuss your concerns with your doctor or midwife. They can perform a physical examination or order an ultrasound to confirm the baby's position and discuss options for management, such as attempting to turn the baby (external cephalic version) or planning for a Cesarean delivery.
