{"id":9218,"date":"2020-02-28T02:43:00","date_gmt":"2020-02-28T01:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/delekbrug.nl\/external-version\/"},"modified":"2026-06-28T14:12:32","modified_gmt":"2026-06-28T13:12:32","slug":"external-version","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/delekbrug.nl\/en\/pregnant\/external-version\/","title":{"rendered":"External cephalic version"},"content":{"rendered":"
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External cephalic version<\/h1>\n

An external cephalic version (ECV) is the process of turning a baby from a breech position to a head-down position by manipulating the baby from the outside of the abdomen.<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Around 30 weeks of pregnancy, approximately 25% of babies are in a breech position. A large number of these will naturally turn to a head-down position. By 35-36 weeks, about 3% of babies remain in a breech position. Is this the case for you? If so, your midwife will explain the external cephalic version<\/a> (ECV) procedure to you and, if desired, schedule an appointment with our dedicated version team. This team consists of Annemarijn, Carmela, Hanneke, Imke and Martine. They are specialists in performing ECVs and are registered in the national version register.[\/vc_column_text]

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Martine\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8956″ img_size=”300×400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Annemarijn\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8786″ img_size=”300×400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Carmela\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8787″ img_size=”300×400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Hanneke\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/3″][vc_single_image image=”8961″ img_size=”300×400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]\n

Imke<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner]
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Risks<\/strong><\/h3>\n
A breech position during delivery carries a higher risk of complications. Babies are more often born in less optimal condition and may require admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Additionally, there is a greater likelihood that a breech delivery will result in a cesarean section. This major abdominal surgery also carries significant risks for both mother and baby. An external cephalic version increases the chance of achieving a spontaneous head-down position, allowing for a head-first delivery and reducing the likelihood of a breech delivery or cesarean section.<\/div>\n

The external cephalic version<\/strong><\/h3>\n

During an external cephalic version (ECV), the baby is manually turned from a breech position to a head-down position by applying pressure externally with the hands. Before proceeding, the midwife will thoroughly explain the risks associated with the version, the potential risks of the breech position if it cannot be turned, and the implications of a breech delivery. We will also provide written information to help you make an informed decision.
\nIf you choose to proceed with the ECV, an ultrasound will first be used to determine the baby\u2019s exact position. We will also assess the type of breech position, such as with extended or flexed legs. Additionally, we will check the amount of amniotic fluid, the location of the placenta, and any other particularities. The baby\u2019s heartbeat will be monitored and recorded using ultrasound or a Doppler device.<\/p>\n

The version specialist<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The version specialist performs the external cephalic version (ECV) by placing both hands on the abdomen to gently grasp the baby and apply light pressure to guide the baby’s breech and head into the desired position. After the procedure, an ultrasound is used to verify the baby\u2019s position and check the heart rate. If you have a Rh-negative blood type, you will be given an anti-D injection to prevent complications related to blood group incompatibility.[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\n

Complications<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Complications after an external cephalic version (ECV) are very rare. Occasionally, the baby may have a slightly slower heart rate immediately following the procedure, but this usually returns to a normal rhythm within 10 minutes. Additionally, the abdomen may feel tender or bruised the next day, but this is temporary. However, if you experience any bleeding or loss of amniotic fluid, you should contact your midwife immediately.
\nIf the version is unsuccessful and the baby remains in a breech position, you will be referred to a gynecologist for further consultation and management.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″]

<\/div>[vc_single_image image=”8789″][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]Success rate<\/strong> at The Lekbrug
\nThe version is a safe method to reduce the risk of breech birth. In our practice, the success rate over 2023, was 57%. (Nationally this 2021\/2022 is 54%)<\/p>\n

Cost<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The costs of an external cephalic version (ECV) are fully covered and can be directly billed to the health insurance provider by us<\/p>\n

More information can be found in on the Dutch website: external version and breech presentation<\/a><\/div>\n
Notice!<\/strong> We request that you come with a (half) full bladder<\/strong><\/em>, contrary to what is stated on the website.<\/div>\n
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and\/or watch a video<\/a> here.<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]
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Why de Lekbrug?<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text]
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