When and how does a baby turn in the womb?

As pregnancy progresses, the baby also grows and develops inside the womb. It is interesting to know how late into the pregnancy a baby can still turn, what positions are possible, and how this may influence the way the birth takes place. In this article, we explore how foetal movements evolve during the different months of pregnancy.

First trimester of pregnancy: early perceptible movements

From 8 weeks of pregnancy, the baby's movements are mainly reflex and involuntary. They are still too slight to be felt by the expectant mother but are already visible during an ultrasound scan. The limbs gradually begin to move, and the baby makes simple rotational movements, aided in particular by the muscles that develop during this period.

Movements become more refined towards the end of the first trimester

Towards the end of the first trimester, the baby's movements become more complex and coordinated. At this stage, they can bend their arms and legs or even touch their face with their hands. The head can even move slightly up and down. However, it is still far too early to determine a definitive position for the baby, as there is plenty of room to move around inside the womb.

Second trimester of pregnancy: baby explores its space

During the second trimester, movements become more perceptible to the expectant mother and are described as "active movements". The baby is now bigger and takes up more space in the uterus.

Baby turns into different positions

During this period, the foetus can be found in several positions:

Cephalic position: the baby's head is directed downwards, close to the cervix, with the feet positioned to the side or upwards. This is the ideal position for a vaginal birth.

Breech position: the baby's bottom is positioned near the cervix and the head is located towards the top of the uterus. This position increases the risks during labour and may require a caesarean section.

Transverse position: the baby lies horizontally, with the head directed towards one side of the uterus. This position is very rare and could also lead to a caesarean section.

At this gestational age, it is common for the baby to alternate between these different positions. Doctors are generally not concerned at this stage as there is still time for the baby to turn before birth.

Third trimester of pregnancy: baby prepares for birth

The third trimester is marked by a slowing down of foetal movements. Movements and rotations are still possible, but more difficult to achieve due to the limited space inside the womb.

When should the baby turn?

During this trimester, it is crucial for the baby to settle into the cephalic position to facilitate the birth. Some babies adopt this position at the start of the third trimester, whilst others do so around 36 weeks of pregnancy.

How late can a baby still turn in the womb?

Generally, up until 36 weeks of pregnancy, the baby can still change position several times before settling into the cephalic position for birth. After this point, however, the chances of the baby turning into an ideal position decrease as there is less space available.

What to do if the baby does not turn?

If the baby remains in the breech or transverse position after 36 weeks of pregnancy, doctors may attempt various manoeuvres to encourage the foetus to turn. For example:

External cephalic version (ECV): this involves applying gentle pressure to the mother's abdomen in order to reposition the baby. This technique must be carried out by a doctor and does not always work.

Pelvic tilting exercises: these are recommended to help the baby turn. The expectant mother can lie on her back with her hips slightly raised and perform gentle rocking movements for around 10 minutes, several times a day.

If these methods do not work, a caesarean section may be considered to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

In summary: the timeline of foetal turning

Here is a recap of the key stages:

First trimester: initial involuntary movements and progressive coordination of the limbs.

Second trimester: exploration of the uterine space and movement through different positions.

Third trimester: slowing of movements, preparation for birth, and the baby's final positioning in the cephalic position around the 36th week of pregnancy.

Now that you know more about how late into pregnancy a baby can still turn, it is worth remaining attentive to your doctor's advice and to any measures that may need to be taken if the baby is not in the ideal position for birth.