Natural Ways to Encourage a Breech Baby to Flip: A Naturopathic Doula’s Guide
1. Optimal Fetal Positioning: Start with Posture
Your daily posture and movements can influence your baby’s position. The goal is to create more space in your pelvis and encourage your baby to tuck their chin and move into a head-down position.
Avoid slouching: Sit upright with your pelvis tilted slightly forward. Use a birth ball or cushion to support your lower back.
Knees below hips: When sitting, ensure your knees are lower than your hips. This opens up the pelvis and gives your baby room to maneuver.
Forward-leaning positions: Spend time on your hands and knees or lean over a birth ball to encourage your baby to move away from your spine and into an optimal position.
2. Chiropractic Care: The Webster Technique
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment designed to balance the pelvis and reduce tension on the ligaments and muscles surrounding the uterus. This can create an environment that allows the baby to move more freely. Many chiropractors trained in prenatal care are skilled in this technique, and it’s a safe, non-invasive option to consider.
3. Acupuncture and Moxibustion
Acupuncture and moxibustion (a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning mugwort near specific acupuncture points) have been shown to help encourage breech babies to flip. The most commonly targeted point is BL-67, located near the outer corner of the little toenail. Studies suggest that moxibustion can stimulate fetal movement and increase the likelihood of the baby turning head-down. Always consult a licensed acupuncturist or TCM practitioner for this treatment.
4. Spinning Babies® Techniques
Spinning Babies® is a fantastic resource for parents and birth workers alike. Their techniques focus on balancing the body and creating space for the baby to move. Two of their most popular methods for breech babies are:
Forward-Leaning Inversion: Kneel on a couch or bed, lower your hands to the floor, and let your hips rise above your shoulders. This gentle inversion can help release tension in the lower uterus and encourage the baby to move.
Side-Lying Release: Lie on your side with your lower leg straight and your upper leg bent, supported by pillows. This can help relax the round ligaments and create more room for the baby to turn.
5. Pelvic Tilts and Breech Tilt Exercises
Pelvic tilts are simple exercises that can help create space in the pelvis and encourage your baby to move. Here’s how to do them:
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Lift your hips slightly off the ground and hold for a few seconds, then lower back down.
Repeat this motion for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
For a more intense version, try the breech tilt: Place a firm pillow or cushion under your hips to elevate them about 9-12 inches off the ground. Stay in this position for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
6. Swimming and Water Exercises
The buoyancy of water can help relieve pressure on your body and give your baby more room to move. Swimming or simply floating in a pool can encourage your baby to shift positions. Try gentle movements like pelvic circles or flips in the water to promote relaxation and mobility.
7. Visualization and Relaxation
Your mental and emotional state can have a powerful impact on your body and your baby. Take time each day to relax, breathe deeply, and visualize your baby turning head-down. You might even try talking to your baby, gently encouraging them to move into the optimal position for birth.
8. Music and Sound
Some mothers have found success with playing music or sounds near the lower part of their abdomen. The theory is that the baby may move toward the sound. Try placing headphones or a speaker near your pelvis and playing calming music or your own voice.
9. Warm and Cold Compresses
Using temperature to encourage movement can be surprisingly effective. Place a cold compress (like a bag of frozen peas) at the top of your uterus where your baby’s head is, and a warm compress (like a heating pad) at the bottom of your uterus. The idea is that your baby will move away from the cold and toward the warmth.
10. External Cephalic Version (ECV)
If your baby remains breech as you near your due date, your healthcare provider may suggest an ECV—a procedure where they manually attempt to turn the baby from the outside. ECV has a mean success rate of 50-60% , and it tends to be more successful if a mother have already been pregnant once and delivered a baby before.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Body and Your Baby
While these techniques can be helpful, it’s important to remember that sometimes babies have their own plans. If your baby remains breech despite your efforts, know that you’ve done everything you can to create the best possible environment for them. Whether your baby flips or not, you are strong, capable, and supported. As your doula, I’m here to help you navigate this journey with confidence and peace of mind.
If Your Baby Stays Breech: There’s Probably a Reason
Sometimes, despite all your efforts, your baby may choose to stay in a breech position. And that’s okay—there’s likely a reason for it. Babies are intuitive, and their position can be influenced by a variety of factors. Here are a few possible reasons why your baby might be staying breech:
Uterine Shape or Structure: Some women have a uterus that is shaped slightly differently (such as a bicornuate uterus or a septum), which can make it more comfortable for the baby to stay breech.
Placenta Placement: If the placenta is positioned in a way that limits space in the lower uterus (such as a low-lying placenta or placenta previa), your baby may find it easier to stay breech.
Cord Length or Position: A shorter umbilical cord or a cord that’s wrapped in a specific way might limit your baby’s ability to turn.
Baby’s Size or Position: Some babies are larger or have their legs or feet positioned in a way that makes it harder to flip. Others may have their head tucked in a way that makes it less likely for them to engage in the pelvis.
Pelvic Shape or Tension: If your pelvis is shaped in a way that makes it harder for the baby to engage, or if there’s tension in the ligaments or muscles around your uterus, your baby might stay breech.
Baby’s Preference: Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of your baby finding a position that feels most comfortable to them. Just like we have our favorite sleeping positions, babies do too!
Honoring Your Journey
If your baby stays breech, it’s important to honor your journey and trust that your body and your baby know what’s best. While a breech birth may come with its own set of challenges, it’s still a natural variation of birth. Many babies are born breech without complications, and there are skilled providers who specialize in supporting breech deliveries.
If a cesarean birth becomes necessary, know that it is still a beautiful and valid way to bring your baby into the world. Your strength and love as a mother are what truly matter, no matter how your baby arrives.
The Gut Microbiome and the Gut-Brain Axis: How Your Gut Health Shapes Your Mind and Body
Have you ever had a "gut feeling" about something? Or felt butterflies in your stomach when you’re nervous? These common experiences are more than just metaphors—they’re evidence of the powerful connection between your gut and your brain. As a naturopathic doctor, I’m passionate about helping people understand this connection and how it impacts their overall health. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of the gut microbiome and the gut-brain axis, and explore how you can support both for a healthier, happier you.
What is the Gut Microbiome?
Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more—collectively known as the gut microbiome. These tiny inhabitants play a huge role in your health, far beyond just digestion. They help:
Break down food and absorb nutrients.
Produce essential vitamins like B12 and K.
Regulate your immune system.
Even produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influences mood and happiness (fun fact: about 90% of serotonin is made in the gut!).
When your gut microbiome is balanced, it supports overall wellness. But when it’s out of balance (a state called dysbiosis), it can contribute to a host of issues, from digestive problems to mental health challenges.
The Gut-Brain Axis: Your Gut and Brain in Constant Conversation
The gut-brain axis is the two-way communication system between your gut and your brain. They “talk” to each other through:
The Vagus Nerve: The main highway for signals between the gut and brain.
Neurotransmitters: Chemicals like serotonin and dopamine that influence mood and cognition.
Immune System: Gut health directly impacts inflammation, which can affect brain function.
Metabolites: Compounds like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut bacteria that influence brain health.
This connection explains why an upset stomach can make you feel anxious, or why stress can lead to digestive issues. It also highlights how nurturing your gut can have profound effects on your mental and emotional well-being.
How the Gut-Brain Axis Impacts Your Health
An imbalanced gut microbiome can contribute to a wide range of health issues, including:
Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, and even conditions like ADHD and autism have been linked to gut health.
Digestive Disorders: IBS, bloating, constipation, and leaky gut are often rooted in gut dysbiosis.
Chronic Inflammation: A unhealthy gut can trigger systemic inflammation, contributing to autoimmune diseases and other chronic conditions.
Brain Health: Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Energy and Sleep: Your gut microbiome influences your circadian rhythms and energy levels.
The good news? By supporting your gut health, you can positively impact your brain and overall well-being.
5 Naturopathic Tips to Support Your Gut-Brain Axis
Here are my top evidence-based strategies to nurture your gut microbiome and strengthen the gut-brain connection:
1. Feed Your Gut with Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods
Load up on fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains to feed beneficial gut bacteria.
Incorporate fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to introduce probiotics.
Don’t forget polyphenol-rich foods like berries, green tea, and dark chocolate, which nourish your microbiome.
2. Prioritize Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics (found in supplements or fermented foods) help replenish good bacteria.
Prebiotics (found in garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus) act as food for probiotics, helping them thrive.
3. Manage Stress
Chronic stress disrupts the gut-brain axis, leading to imbalances in gut bacteria and increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut).
Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to calm your nervous system and support gut health.
4. Heal Your Gut Lining
Incorporate gut-healing foods like bone broth, which is rich in collagen and amino acids.
Consider supplements like L-glutamine, an amino acid that supports intestinal cell repair.
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish and flaxseeds) can reduce inflammation and promote gut healing.
5. Lifestyle Matters
Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support your gut and brain.
Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes microbial diversity and reduces stress.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and the mucosal lining of your gut.
When to Seek Help
If you’re struggling with chronic digestive issues, mental health challenges, or simply feel like something’s “off,” it may be time to dig deeper. As a naturopathic doctor, I often use advanced testing like stool analysis or food sensitivity testing to identify root causes of imbalance. From there, we can create a personalized plan to restore your gut health and optimize your well-being.
The Bigger Picture: Health is Holistic
The gut-brain axis is a powerful reminder that health is not just about isolated systems—it’s about the interconnectedness of your body, mind, and environment. By nurturing your gut microbiome, you’re not only supporting digestion but also enhancing your mood, cognitive function, and overall vitality.
Final Thoughts
Your gut is more than just a digestive organ—it’s a cornerstone of your health. By making small, consistent changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can cultivate a thriving gut microbiome and a resilient mind. Remember, you have the power to shape your health from the inside out.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your gut health journey, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to unlock your body’s innate healing potential!
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes and does not replace personalized medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
What steps are you taking to support your gut health? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you! 🌱
Best Exercises to Optimize Baby’s Position for Labour
1. Pelvic Tilts (Cat-Cow Stretch)
Pelvic tilts are a gentle way to encourage your baby to move into the optimal position. This exercise helps create space in the pelvis and encourages the baby to tuck their chin, which is ideal for labour.
How to do it:
Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
Inhale as you arch your back, lifting your head and tailbone (cow pose).
Exhale as you round your back, tucking your pelvis and chin (cat pose).
Repeat for 5–10 minutes daily.
2. Forward-Leaning Inversion
This exercise can help shift a baby who is in a posterior position (back-to-back) to an anterior position (back-to-belly). It’s especially useful in the later stages of pregnancy.
How to do it:
Kneel on the edge of a couch or bed, and slowly lower your hands to the floor.
Keep your elbows bent and your head off the ground.
Hold the position for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then slowly return to kneeling.
Note: Avoid this exercise if you have high blood pressure or feel dizzy.
3. Squats
Squats are excellent for opening the pelvis and encouraging the baby to descend. They also strengthen the legs and pelvic floor, which can be helpful during labour.
How to do it:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Lower yourself into a squat, keeping your knees aligned with your toes.
Hold onto a sturdy surface for balance if needed.
Aim for 10–15 squats daily, or as comfortable.
4. Butterfly Stretch
The butterfly stretch opens the hips and pelvis, creating more space for the baby to move into the optimal position.
How to do it:
Sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent outward.
Hold your feet and gently press your knees toward the floor.
Hold the stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply.
5. Walking
Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to encourage your baby to move into the right position. The gentle rocking motion of walking can help the baby settle deeper into the pelvis.
How to do it:
Aim for a 20–30 minute walk daily.
Focus on maintaining good posture, with your pelvis slightly tilted forward.
6. Side-Lying Release
This exercise, popularized by Spinning Babies, helps relax the uterine ligaments and create space for the baby to rotate into an optimal position.
How to do it:
Lie on your side with your bottom leg straight and your top leg bent, resting on a pillow.
Place a pillow under your belly for support.
Stay in this position for 5–10 minutes, then switch sides.
7. Birth Ball Exercises
Using a birth ball (also called a stability ball) can help open the pelvis and encourage the baby to move into the right position.
How to do it:
Sit on the ball with your feet flat on the floor and gently bounce or rock your hips in circular motions.
You can also lean forward over the ball while kneeling to relieve pressure and create space in the pelvis.
8. Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help relieve pressure on your joints while encouraging your baby to move into the optimal position. The buoyancy of the water allows for gentle movements that can help the baby settle.
How to do it:
Swim laps or simply float on your back in a pool.
Focus on relaxing and enjoying the weightlessness.
Tips for Success:
Stay Consistent: Incorporate these exercises into your daily routine, especially during the third trimester.
Listen to Your Body: Avoid overexertion and stop any exercise that causes pain or discomfort.
Combine with Good Posture: Practice good posture throughout the day by sitting upright and avoiding slouching to create more space in your pelvis.
Final Thoughts
While these exercises can help encourage your baby into the optimal position for labour, it’s important to remember that every pregnancy is unique. If your baby remains in a less-than-ideal position, don’t stress—your healthcare provider can offer guidance and support. The goal is to stay active, relaxed, and confident as you prepare for the incredible journey of childbirth.
By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you’ll not only optimize your baby’s position but also strengthen your body for labour. Happy moving, and here’s to a smooth and positive birth experience!
Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine during pregnancy.
Discover Best Acupuncture Points for Pain Relief During Labour
Labour is a profoundly transformative experience, but it can also be accompanied by intense physical discomfort. For expectant mothers seeking natural methods to manage pain and support their body’s natural processes, acupuncture can offer safe and effective relief. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body to promote energy flow and alleviate discomfort. Below, we explore the best acupuncture points for pain relief during labour and how they can aid the birthing process.
1. LI4 (Hegu) - The Command Point for Pain
Location: On the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
Why It Helps: LI4 is one of the most well-known acupuncture points for pain relief. Stimulating this point can:
Reduce overall pain intensity during contractions.
Help regulate uterine contractions.
Promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
Caution: Avoid using this point before labour begins, as it may stimulate uterine contractions prematurely.
2. SP6 (Sanyinjiao) - The Labour Helper
Location: About three finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, along the tibia.
Why It Helps: SP6 is a vital point for promoting labour progression and managing pain. Its benefits include:
Relaxing the pelvic muscles.
Stimulating uterine contractions to support an efficient labour process.
Relieving lower back and abdominal pain.
Caution: Similar to LI4, SP6 should only be stimulated when labour has begun or is medically indicated.
3. BL32 (Ciliao) - The Sacral Pain Reliever
Location: In the sacral region, in the second posterior sacral foramen.
Why It Helps: BL32 is highly effective for relieving labour pain and tension in the lower back and pelvis. This point can:
Alleviate deep pelvic and sacral discomfort.
Support uterine contractions by enhancing blood flow to the area.
Promote a smoother progression through the stages of labour.
4. GB21 (Jianjing) - The Tension Releaser
Location: At the top of the shoulders, midway between the base of the neck and the outer shoulder.
Why It Helps: Labour can cause significant tension throughout the body, especially in the upper back and neck. Stimulating GB21:
Reduces upper body tension and promotes relaxation.
Encourages the descent of the baby during active labour.
Relieves stress and anxiety, enhancing mental clarity.
5. PC6 (Neiguan) - The Nausea and Calmness Point
Location: On the inner forearm, about three finger-widths from the wrist crease, between the two tendons.
Why It Helps: Labour can sometimes cause nausea or emotional distress. PC6 is known for its ability to:
Relieve nausea and vomiting.
Calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
Support the body’s natural pain management mechanisms.
6. KD1 (Yongquan) - The Grounding Point
Location: On the sole of the foot, in the depression between the ball of the foot and the base of the second toe.
Why It Helps: KD1 is an essential point for grounding energy and providing a sense of stability during labour. Its benefits include:
Reducing anxiety and fear.
Encouraging focus and mental clarity.
Helping to manage pain naturally by promoting relaxation.
How to Use These Acupuncture Points During Labour
Acupressure: If an acupuncturist isn’t available, a support partner or doula can apply gentle, firm pressure to these points using their fingers.
Timing: Focus on these points during contractions or as needed for ongoing relief and relaxation.
Professional Guidance: Consult with a certified acupuncturist or healthcare provider experienced in prenatal care to ensure safe and effective use of these points.
The Science Behind Acupuncture for Labour Pain Relief
Research suggests that acupuncture and acupressure can reduce pain intensity, shorten labour duration, and decrease the need for medical interventions like epidurals. By stimulating these points, the body releases endorphins—natural pain-relieving chemicals—and improves circulation, creating a more supportive environment for labour.
A Gentle, Empowering Approach
Acupuncture offers a holistic, drug-free method to help manage the challenges of labour. By incorporating these targeted points into your birth plan, you can feel more empowered and supported throughout the process. Always remember to consult your healthcare provider to ensure acupuncture aligns with your specific needs and circumstances.
For expectant mothers seeking a balanced, natural birth experience, acupuncture can be a transformative tool for navigating labour with greater ease and confidence.
Top 5 Reasons to Hire a Naturopathic Doula for Your Birth and Postpartum Journey
It all begins with an idea.
Bringing new life into the world is an incredible journey, but it’s not without its challenges. Many families in Ontario are turning to naturopathic doula services to experience a more holistic, supportive, and empowering birth and postpartum journey. If you’re considering working with a doula, here are the top five reasons why a naturopathic doula might be the perfect choice for you.
1. Holistic Support for Your Mind, Body, and Spirit
A naturopathic doula takes a comprehensive approach to your care. Beyond physical support during labor and delivery, they focus on your mental and emotional well-being too. This includes techniques like:
Guided relaxation and breathwork.
Natural remedies to manage discomfort and stress.
Emotional empowerment to help you feel confident in your birthing experience.
By combining traditional doula techniques with naturopathic principles, your doula ensures you’re supported in every way.
2. Expertise in Natural Birth Practices
If you’re planning a natural or minimally invasive birth, a naturopathic doula is your advocate. They’re well-versed in practices such as:
Optimal fetal positioning techniques.
Natural pain relief methods, like aromatherapy and acupressure.
Non-pharmacological labor management tips.
In York Region and across Ontario, many families are choosing natural births to stay connected to their bodies and avoid unnecessary interventions. A naturopathic doula can help guide you through this process with expertise and care.
3. Personalized Postpartum Night Support
The postpartum period is a time of significant adjustment, and lack of sleep can make it even harder. Naturopathic doulas offer specialized postpartum night support, helping you:
Establish healthy sleep routines for your baby.
Navigate breastfeeding challenges.
Recover physically with natural remedies and nutritional advice.
Whether you’re in Markham, Richmond Hill, or Vaughan, a night doula can give you the rest and recovery time you need to fully embrace parenthood.
4. A Trusted Partner for Your Birth Plan
Creating a birth plan can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. A naturopathic doula will:
Help you design a birth plan tailored to your preferences.
Advocate for your wishes during labor and delivery.
Provide ongoing education about your options and rights.
With their support, you’ll feel empowered and informed every step of the way.
5. Stronger Family Bonding and Confidence
One of the most valuable aspects of working with a naturopathic doula is their ability to foster deeper connections within your family. They encourage:
Partner involvement during labor.
Techniques to bond with your baby naturally.
Confidence-building for parents as they navigate this new chapter.
Many families in Ontario report feeling more connected and prepared after working with a doula.
Why Families in Ontario Are Choosing Naturopathic Doula Services
Families in Ontario, particularly in the GTA, are increasingly drawn to holistic approaches like naturopathic doula care. With a focus on natural remedies, emotional support, and postpartum recovery, these services are transforming how parents experience birth and the months that follow.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you’re interested in naturopathic doula services or postpartum night support, I’d love to help you create a beautiful, empowering experience. Whether you’re in Markham, Vaughan, or anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area , we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about how I can support your birthing and postpartum journey!