Question

Write the indications of external cephalic version.

Hint:

External cephalic version is performed to turn a breech fetus to a head-down position, primarily indicated when breech presentation persists at term in a woman with no contraindications.

Answer 1

Step 1: Indications for External Cephalic Version (ECV).
External cephalic version (ECV) is a procedure used to turn a breech fetus to a head-down position before labor. The indications for ECV include:
(1) Breech Presentation at Term:
- The most common indication for ECV is breech presentation (where the fetus is in a non-vertex position) at 37 weeks of gestation or later. The aim is to convert the breech presentation to a cephalic (head-down) presentation to improve the chances of a vaginal delivery.
(2) Nulliparous Women with Breech Presentation:
- ECV is commonly recommended for first-time pregnancies (nulliparity) with breech presentation to avoid cesarean section and facilitate a vaginal delivery if the breech position is the only risk factor.
(3) Elective Vaginal Birth:
- ECV can be used in the absence of other contraindications to attempt a vaginal delivery in cases where cesarean delivery is considered for breech presentation.