If you’ve just been told your baby is in a breech position, you’re probably feeling a rush of worry, questions, and maybe even a bit of panic. What does this mean for your birth plan? Do you have options beyond a C-section? Can anything be done naturally?
As a prenatal chiropractor, postpartum chiropractor, and paediatric chiropractor, this is one of the most common calls I receive, and I want you to know: you have more options than you may realize.
One of the most well-known and trusted tools in prenatal chiropractic care for supporting optimal fetal positioning is the Webster Technique. In this post, I’ll explain what it is, how it works, and honestly, what it can and cannot promise you.
What Is a Breech Baby?
During pregnancy, most babies naturally move into a head-down (vertex) position by around 32–36 weeks in preparation for birth. When a baby remains positioned with their bottom, feet, or knees toward the birth canal instead, we call this a breech presentation or breech baby.
Breech occurs in approximately 3–4% of full-term pregnancies. It doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong, but it does affect how birth unfolds. Many care providers will discuss options like a planned caesarean section (C-section). It’s also worth exploring gentle, supportive options, like chiropractic care during pregnancy, as early as possible, to give your baby the best environment to find their own way into an optimal position.
What Is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment technique that focuses on the sacrum, sacroiliac (SI) joints, round ligaments, broad ligaments, soft tissues surrounding the uterus, the psoas muscle, and other pelvic muscles that affect uterine positioning.
Here’s a simple way to think about it: imagine your uterus like a hammock suspended by a network of ligaments. When your pelvis is out of alignment, those ligaments pull unevenly, causing the hammock to twist and narrow. This intrauterine constraint can limit your baby’s ability to move freely and settle into the ideal head-down position. By gently restoring pelvic balance and sacral alignment, the Webster Technique helps open up that space so your baby has the room they need to find their best position.
The Most Important Thing I Need You to Know
Nobody can guarantee your baby will turn. Not a chiropractor. Not your OB. Not your midwife. Nobody.
This is something I feel strongly about communicating honestly to every family I work with. The Webster Technique does not “flip” or “turn” babies. What it does is address the musculoskeletal causes of intrauterine constraint, restoring balance to your pelvis and releasing tension in the surrounding soft tissues so that your baby has the best possible space and environment to move if they are able to.
When Should You Start Prenatal Chiropractic Care?
The earlier, the better. However, it is never too late to start. The Webster Technique tends to be most effective for breech babies when care begins between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, simply because there is still sufficient amniotic fluid and space for baby to move. Research suggests the best outcomes are seen with 3–6 Webster Technique adjustments during this window.
That said, some babies have repositioned even at 38–39 weeks with consistent chiropractic care during pregnancy. If you’ve just received a breech diagnosis, don’t wait. Reach out to a Webster-certified prenatal chiropractor as soon as possible so there is time to support your body before your care team needs to finalize your birth plan.
Even if you aren’t dealing with a breech baby, chiropractic care during pregnancy can benefit all expectant mothers by relieving back pain, sciatica, and hip discomfort while supporting your body’s natural preparation for birth.
What to Expect at a Prenatal Chiropractic Visit
Prenatal chiropractic care is safe, gentle, and tailored specifically to your pregnant body. At a Webster Technique appointment, your chiropractor will:
- Assess the alignment and symmetry of your pelvis, sacrum, and SI joints.
- Check for tension in the round ligaments and surrounding soft tissues.
- Use gentle, low-force adjustments — no forceful twisting, cracking, or popping.
- Perform soft tissue release on the round ligaments and relevant muscles.
- Use a specialized pregnancy table that fully accommodates your growing belly, along with a pregnancy pillow for added comfort and support.
Most expectant mothers find their sessions deeply relaxing, feeling only gentle pressure or a light stretch during treatment.
Prenatal Chiropractic Care as Part of Your Birth Team
Prenatal chiropractic care works best as part of a collaborative care approach. Your OB or midwife remains your primary care provider for pregnancy and birth. A Webster-certified chiropractor works alongside your birth team, supporting your body’s function and comfort throughout pregnancy — not replacing medical care.
If you’re exploring your options after a breech diagnosis, it’s worth having a conversation with both your primary care provider and a pregnancy chiropractor to build a plan that feels right for your unique situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breech Babies and Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Prenatal chiropractic care, especially the Webster Technique, uses gentle, low-force techniques specifically designed for pregnant bodies. No adverse effects have been reported in connection with the Webster Technique when performed by a trained Webster-certified prenatal chiropractor.
How many appointments will I need?
For breech babies, research suggests that 3–6 Webster Technique adjustments between 32–37 weeks provide the best opportunity. Your chiropractor will assess your individual needs and create a personalized care plan.
Can I see a chiropractor if my baby is already head-down?
Absolutely. Chiropractic care during pregnancy benefits all expectant mothers, whether for optimal fetal positioning, relief from pregnancy discomforts, or labour preparation.
Do I need a referral?
No. A referral is not required to see a prenatal chiropractor in Aurora or anywhere in York Region or Ontario.
What about postpartum care?
Postpartum chiropractic care is just as important as prenatal care. Birth places significant demands on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding tissues. Early postpartum chiropractic adjustments can support your recovery and help your body realign after delivery.
Ready to Support Your Pregnancy in Aurora & York Region?
As a Webster-certified prenatal chiropractor, postpartum chiropractor, and paediatric chiropractor in Aurora, Ontario, I support families throughout York Region, including Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, King City, and surrounding communities, through every stage of the perinatal journey — from first-trimester discomforts to labour preparation, postpartum recovery, and your baby’s first chiropractic check-up.
If your baby is breech, or if you simply want to support the healthiest, most balanced pregnancy possible, book a consultation today. Let’s work together to create the best possible environment for you and your baby.
Ready to Book a Prenatal Chiropractic Appointment in Aurora?
Dr. Pegah Hajizargarbashi is a Webster-certified prenatal chiropractor, postpartum chiropractor, and paediatric chiropractor serving Aurora, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, King City, and all of York Region. She is currently accepting new patients and would love to support you through every stage of your pregnancy and postpartum journey.