Moxibustion for Breech Presentation

The turning of breech babies has long been well known to respond to a treatment called moxibustion. By burning a fragrant herb over one of the acupuncture points, it can relax the muscles in the uterus allowing the baby to turn.

The moxibustion is done by taking a moxa stick (a stick of compressed herbs the size of a candle) and lighting the end. This herb then smoulders and the heat radiates into the point. This is done over the point on each side for fifteen minutes each day for 1 week.

Moxibustion is a completely safe and very gentle way of attempting to turn babies. The best results are often gained before week 36/37 as after this stage there is so little room for the baby to move. I have however had babies that have turned at week 38/39.

Usually only one treatment is required, where the acupuncturist will teach the moxibustion, teach where the points are, and then give a moxa stick to the patient to continue the process at home over the next week.