Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Frank Breech

by Alix
(Texas)

I am almost 38 weeks pregnant and my baby is frank breech. I had a doctors appointment early yesterday morning and i was 1/2 cm dilated. I was wanting to know if there is a good chance i will dilate quickly and how to know if I dilate close to a 10??

Answer:

Hi Alix,

Unfortunately, there's really no way to tell before you actually go into labor just how fast it's going to go.

Generally, the best way to dilate quickly is to stay active, use good positions (so not on your back!), and just welcome labor. Relax and let your body know that you're willing to let this happen. If you tense up, it slows things down.

If you are dilated close to ten, most likely you are going to know it! Most women really know that they're getting close - and if you're at the pushing stage you will probably feel an undeniable urge to push.

If you start feeling "pushy" you are probably ten centimeters or very close to it.

Good positions for birthing a breech baby are standing up and on your hands and knees, and these are also good positions to labor in to encourage dilation.

Best of luck on your baby's birth!