Natural Techniques for Turning Breech Babies

Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Breech Presentation
Being told your baby is in breech presentation can be stressful for some expectant mothers. Most women want to avoid having a C-section and are willing to try anything to help their baby turn before labor starts. Acupuncture, particularly when combined with Moxibustion, has been used for centuries to address breech presentations. Moxibustion (Moxa) is a traditional Chinese method which consists of burning the dried leaves of a medicinal plant, Artemisia vulgaris (known as Mugwort) and uses the heat generated to stimulate a specific point on the pinky toe.

Administering Moxa opens up the uterus to make more room for the breech baby to turn. Combined with acupuncture, moxibustion helps to increase fetal movement, and the effect of gravity will encourage the heaviest part of the baby, the head, to enter the pelvis as it shifts its position.

A 2023 Cochrane Systemic Review found that moxibustion before 37 weeks of pregnancy may reduce the chance of breech presentation at birth.* Treatment has become more popular and more widely documented as women have sought alternatives to surgical interventions.

The best time to turn a breech presentation is between the 32-37 weeks of gestation.

At Scarsdale Acupuncture, we have been successfully turning breech babies for over two decades. More and more OB’s are referring to us because they see it works. If you or someone you know are looking for help with this, contact us at 914.472.2600 or info@ScarsdaleAcupuncture.com

Consultation and Assessment
Our Licensed Acupuncturists begin with a thorough consultation to understand your medical history, pregnancy progress, and answer any questions or concerns. This helps us tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

Treatment Plan
Based on the consultation and assessment, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment frequency depends on ultrasound appointments but generally one to two treatments per week is ideal.

Acupuncture
During each session, fine, sterile, disposable needles will be gently inserted into specific points on your body. The treatment is designed to be relaxing, and many mothers find it soothing and calming.

Moxibustion
In addition to acupuncture, your acupuncturist will apply moxibustion bilaterally on the acupuncture point on the foot (Bladder 67), which is believed to help the uterine muscles relax allowing the baby to turn. You will feel a gentle, relaxing warmth. Following the acupuncture/moxa treatment, you will be given moxa with instructions to continue at home between sessions.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are safe for both mom and baby when performed by a licensed practitioner. However, is essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and make informed decisions about your care. acupuncture point on the foot (Bladder 67), which is believed to help the uterine muscles relax, allowing the baby to turn. You will feel a gentle, relaxing warmth. Following the acupuncture/moxa treatment, you will be given moxa with instructions to continue at home between sessions.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are safe for both mom and baby when performed by a licensed practitioner. However, is essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and make informed decisions about your care.

Testimonials
“I began seeing Andrea for fertility issues and I can say without a doubt that her work with me led to a successful first pregnancy. While pregnant with my second child, I learned that the baby was breech at 35 and a half weeks. I immediately sought out Andrea to try to turn the baby and avoid a c-section. Through four sessions of acupuncture and moxibustion, I learned at 37 and a half weeks that the baby had turned head down…miraculous at such a late stage! Andrea is patient and kind, and took the time to get to know me as a whole person. She put me at ease throughout some very anxious times and was always available for any questions and concerns I had. I am happy to recommend her.”
– Lisa, New Rochelle, NY

“The team at Scarsdale Acupuncture are amazing! When I first read that moxibustion therapy could help turn a breach baby, I was a little anxious. But at my first appointment they explained everything clearly and really helped calm me down. I was given a stick of moxibustion to take home with detailed instructions. After a few days, I couldn’t believe it, my baby turned!”
– Sam, Pelham, NY

“When the doctor told me that my baby was breech, I reached out to Andrea at Scarsdale Acupuncture to see if she could help turn the baby around. Andrea was supportive, knowledgeable and patient explaining to me how acupuncture and moxibustion have been known to work in situations like mine. I was skeptical at first, but after only two sessions, the baby turned and I am confident that my success story is due to not only the acupuncture and moxibustion, but to Andrea’s calm presence and caring nature. Thank you, Andrea!”
– Debbie, Scarsdale, NY