Effect of spontaneous cephalic version techniques with acoustic stimulation on maternal and neonatal outcomes in breech presentation: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Aim. Breech presentation complicates 3-4% of all term deliveries. This trial aimed to study the effect of combining spontaneous cephalic version (SCV) techniques with acoustic stimulation on the position of breech fetuses and their subsequent impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Materials and Methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 60 pregnant women at 32-34 weeks of gestation, all expecting a singleton fetus in complete breech presentation. They were assigned to two equal groups: Group (A) consisted of intervention participants who performed SCV techniques in conjunction with acoustic stimulation from 34 weeks of gestation, along with routine antenatal care. Group (B) comprised control participants who continued with their routine prenatal care up to delivery. Results. The chi-square test indicated a statistically significant increase in the number of vaginal deliveries among participants in Group (A) due to the fetuses turning to a vertex position. Meanwhile, neonates from Group (B) demonstrated a statistically significant higher Apgar score value at the 1st minute of life compared to those in Group (A). Conclusion. Spontaneous cephalic version techniques combined with acoustic stimulation are effective in repositioning a breech baby into a vertex position, thereby reducing the incidence of cesarean sections and associated morbidities for both mother and neonate.