How Late Can Breech Twins Turn?

Introduction

When a pregnant woman is carrying twins, it’s not uncommon for one or both babies to be in the breech position. This means that the baby is positioned feet-first, rather than head-first. While some breech babies can be delivered safely, it’s generally considered safer for babies to be in the head-down position. So, how late can breech twins turn? Let’s take a closer look.

When Do Babies Usually Turn?

Most babies will turn on their own by 36 weeks of pregnancy. This is because, as the baby grows, there is less room in the uterus, which makes it easier for the baby to turn into the head-down position. If a baby is still in the breech position at this stage, your doctor may recommend trying to turn the baby, or consider other options for delivery.

Is It Possible for Breech Twins to Turn Late?

Yes, it is possible for breech twins to turn late in pregnancy. However, it’s less likely than with a single baby, as there is less room in the uterus for the babies to move around. Additionally, if one twin turns, it can be more difficult for the other twin to also turn, as they are often pressed tightly against each other.

When Is It Too Late for Breech Twins to Turn?

It’s generally considered too late for breech twins to turn after 36 weeks of pregnancy. This is because there is less room in the uterus, and the babies are larger and less likely to move around. If one or both twins are still in the breech position at this stage, your doctor may recommend a cesarean section, rather than attempting a vaginal delivery.

What Can You Do to Encourage Your Twins to Turn?

If you’re carrying breech twins, there are some things you can do to encourage them to turn:

• Stay active: Walking and doing gentle exercises can help encourage your babies to move around.
• Get into a knee-chest position: This involves kneeling on the floor and leaning forward onto your hands. This can help create more space in your uterus, making it easier for your babies to turn.
• Try acupuncture: Some studies have suggested that acupuncture may be effective in turning breech babies.
• Consider external cephalic version (ECV): This is a procedure where a doctor or midwife will manually attempt to turn the baby from the outside. This can be effective, but it does carry some risks.

Conclusion

If you’re carrying breech twins, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your options for delivery. While it is possible for breech twins to turn late in pregnancy, it’s generally considered safer to deliver them via cesarean section if they are still in the breech position after 36 weeks. However, there are some things you can do to encourage your babies to turn, so it’s worth discussing these options with your doctor.