ECV - need to make a decision

dglvrk2

Have any of you mamas had an external cephalic version (ECV)? 

I'll be 38 weeks on Saturday and my LO is frank breech.  I'm scheduled to have an ECV this coming Tuesday.  I'm still torn about whether this is the right thing to do or not.  

I understand it's painful, especially for first time moms, like me, and the success rates are about 55%.  

Tuesday is the only day my hospital can schedule me next week and they definitely want to do it before 39 weeks.  Unfortunately, Tuesday was supposed to be my second to last work day (not great to miss, but whatever...) AND my husband is supposed to be out of town for work.  It would mean us altering our plans in the event of an emergency delivery.  

I'm assuming you want your spouse/partner with you. Correct me if I'm wrong :-)  

However, if it's successful, it could mean a vaginal birth.  I'd prefer a vaginal birth, but, more importantly, want birth to be as easy for my baby as possible.  

If you and an ECV, what were your experiences?  

Any advice?  

Thanks!!

 

fluffybuns

I had one, and it was successful. I ended up having a great experience with labor and delivery this time around, and had the vaginal birth I wanted!

One thing really helped me make the decision, and it was that my practice didn't do VBAC, so it would mean c-sections from here on out, and I plan on having more children.

My chances were 50/50, so the doctor told me. But, I had an epidural for the procedure. It was still really uncomfortable, but that was it, not painful. It was very quick-5-10 minutes and lo was turned in the right direction!

I had to know that I did everything possible to avoid a c-section, and it just worked out for us in the end. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

I'd be happy to share more about the procedure's specifics if you pm me! I would check with your doctor about the epidural for the procedure, it takes away the pain, and increases your success rate significantly! You are able to keep your muscles relaxed instead of being tense allowing the baby to be turned easier.

Good luck to you!! 

yesthisiskim

I had a successful ECV at 37w. No epidural. They gave me a shot (starts with T) and it's pretty much adrenaline to relax your muscles aka your ute in order to turn the baby. The shot and its effects were the worst opart for me. They put u/s gel all over my stomach and my OB had his hands scooped behind LO's head and a nurse had her butt. It took two turns and maybe 45 seconds and it was over. I didn't find it painful, just very uncomfortable. I was sore the next day however - I felt beat up. I had a wonderful, easy vaginal birth 2w later. I am so happy I did it. GL!!

shaindelr

Mine turned into an emergency c-section. As soon as he flipped, all of the monitors went crazy. When he flipped, the cord wrapped around his neck, and his vitals dropped. A nurse just said, "You're having your baby now" and put the oxygen mask over my face. He was out about four minutes later. It was the scariest experience of my life, but we're both okay now...

Since that's a possibility, you DEFINITELY want your significant other with you and your hospital bag just in case.

I'll be thinking of you, whatever you decide.