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Breech presentation

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Breech is the most common malpresentation, occurring in 3% of pregnancies. It is thought to increase foetal mortality, but it is unclear how much this increase is due to the breech presentation or due to the factors which predispose to breech.

There are various types of breech:

  • frank breech - hips flexed, legs extended at the knee (i.e. feet by ears) - 60-70%
  • flexed breech - also called complete - both legs flexed at hip and knee (i.e. legs crossed) - 30-40%
  • footling breech - at least one leg presents below the breech - < 1%; this type of breech presentation carries the greatest risk of cord prolapse

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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