Elara guides
Head-down, breech, and what it means
Your baby's position late on — and why it can still change.
Updated · Sources
As your due date nears, conversation turns to how your baby is lying. Most settle head-down ready for birth, but a fair number are breech (bottom or feet first) until late on — and many still turn. Here's what the positions mean and what can be done.
The positions
- Cephalic (head-down) — the most common and straightforward for a vaginal birth.
- Breech — bottom or feet first; common earlier, less so by term.
- Transverse — lying sideways; needs attention as the due date approaches.
- Anterior vs posterior — whether baby faces your back (easier) or your front (“back labour”).
It can still change
Before about 36 weeks, position matters far less — there's plenty of room and babies move a lot. Most flip head-down on their own by term. Don't read too much into an early scan saying “breech”; it's the position closer to your due date that counts.
If baby stays breech
Around 36–37 weeks, if your baby is still breech, your team may offer an ECV — a procedure where a clinician gently tries to turn the baby from the outside. If that's not chosen or doesn't work, you'll discuss options for a breech vaginal birth or a planned caesarean. Optimal-positioning exercises are popular but evidence for them is limited.
Sources & editorial process
Written by the Elara editorial team from the sources above. This page has not been reviewed by an independent clinician. Read how we write and update health pages. Last updated .
Medical disclaimer: this page is general education, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about yourself or your baby, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. In an emergency call your local emergency number.