Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

My Baby's Head is Tucked Down on Ultrasound

My baby's head is tucked down almost on the chest. It's difficult for ultrasound people to get the view and measurements they need. Should I be worried? What would cause baby to do this?

Answer:

I don't think you should be worried - babies are in cramped conditions in the womb, and often rest curled tightly in the "fetal position" which includes tucking the head down. During labor it's beneficial for the baby to have head tucked to chest because it helps the baby move through the birth canal.

Babies of all gestations will sometimes be curled up, and sometimes stretch (or try to stretch!)

If a baby is sleeping during an ultrasound scan it can be hard for the ultrasound technicians to get the baby to move to get all the views and measurements they want to. In this case you'll often be asked to come back in for another ultrasound.

You can try having glass of fruit juice before your next ultrasound to give baby a little "wake up." Otherwise, I wouldn't worry - your baby was just in a curled position on the day of your scan.