Labor - When do babies turn their head down?

For most expecting moms, questions about pregnancy are like likes on Angelina Jolie’s latest Instagram pic. They just keep on coming. One of the most common ones is “when does my baby turn his head down inside the womb?”. One of the reasons for all the excitement about this question is that the baby’s head position indicates that the woman is ready to deliver the baby soon.

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So, when does this magical thing happen?

According to experts, an unborn baby can turn his head down between the 28th and 32nd week of pregnancy. However, some babies have been known to get into this position minutes before labor begins. You can also undergo a vaginal birth even if the baby hasn’t turned his head down.

Why Does The Baby’s Head Position Matter?

During labor, a baby passes through the pelvic bones before he reaches the birth canal. The best position for an uncomplicated vaginal delivery is called the occiput anterior, where the baby is head down, and his body faces the mom’s back.

As this position is the best for delivering a baby, most moms are eager to learn if their baby has turned his head down and is primed for birth.

  • Head down position exerts pressure on the cervix’s neck, letting the cervix to widen. The widening organ also triggers hormone production, which is essential for labor.
  • The position makes it easy for the baby to come out.

Getting Your Baby’s Head In Position

Typically babies get into the position around the 30th week of pregnancy. But, sometimes it may not happen until the 36th week. If this happens to you, you can take steps to help your baby change his position:

  1. Get into a sitting position.
  2. But avoid sitting continuously for long periods.
  3. Place a cushion to support your back while sitting.
  4. Practice with a birthing ball (get an instructor if you don’t know how to use it)

While getting the baby into a head-down position is desirable, don’t worry if it doesn’t happen. Most babies who don’t turn are delivered through a C-section. Consult your OB/GYN for a case-specific treatment.

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