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Updated: Jan 4, 2026

External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
[Breech Presentation: CNGOF Guidelines for Clinical Practice - Short Text]
L Sentilhes1, T Schmitz2, E Azria3
1Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, université de Bordeaux, CHU Bordeaux, place Amélie-Raba-Léon, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
Planned vaginal delivery for breech presentation at term is a reasonable option, with low risks for mother and child. External cephalic version (ECV) can reduce cesarean rates. Shared decision-making is key.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Singleton breech presentation occurs in 5% of deliveries.
- Planned vaginal delivery is chosen by one-third of these women, with a 70% success rate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the optimal management of singleton breech presentation at term.
- To evaluate risks and benefits of different delivery modes.
Main Methods:
- Consultation of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and obstetrical society recommendations.
- Review of evidence levels (LE) and professional consensus.
Main Results:
- External cephalic version (ECV) reduces breech presentation at birth and cesarean rates without increasing maternal or perinatal morbidity.
- Planned vaginal delivery may have a slightly increased risk of perinatal mortality or neonatal morbidity compared to planned cesarean delivery.
- No significant differences in neurodevelopmental or long-term cognitive outcomes between planned vaginal and cesarean delivery.
- Maternal complications are similar, but previous cesarean delivery increases risks in subsequent pregnancies.
Conclusions:
- Planned vaginal delivery is a reasonable option for most term breech presentations.
- Risks of severe morbidity for mother and child are low with both planned vaginal and cesarean delivery.
- Informed shared decision-making between woman and caregiver is crucial for choosing the delivery route.
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