What is a Breech Birth?
Breech birth is a complication that occurs when the baby’s buttocks or feet are positioned to deliver first instead of the head. This can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Here are some potential issues associated with breech birth:
For the baby:
- Head trauma, hip dislocation, or spinal cord injuries.
- Fetal distress leading to brain damage or still birth.
- Cord prolapse leading to fetal hypoxia or still birth.
For the mother:
- Vaginal tears or lacerations.
- Increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage.
- Delayed delivery causing maternal fatigue.
Overall, it is essential for healthcare professionals to be prepared to manage breech birth effectively to ensure the best possible outcomes.
How can simulation training help?
Perfecting Manoeuvres
Simulation training can help healthcare professionals perfect the manoeuvres required to effectively facilitate a breech birth. This could include the Mauriceau-Smellie-Veit Manoeuvre, the Ritgen Manoeuvre or any other manoeuvre required, depending on the position of the baby and stage of the delivery.
The MODEL-med Sophie and Sophies Mum 4.0 gives you the ability to accurately simulate a full-term breech birth delivery. You are also able to introduce additional complications, such as a nuchal arm or prolapsed umbilical cord.
No Risk to Patients
Breech birth can cause a range of complications for the mother and baby. Whereas students are often given the ability to assist in low-risk scenarios, doing so in a high-risk or time sensitive situation is not always possible.
Simulation training can provide a safe environment to practice managing a breech birth whilst posing no risk to a live patient. This can help medical practitioners safely gain experience whilst enhancing their confidence and competence.
Staying Up to Date
Breech Births only account for 3 to 4% of all term pregnancies. As such, medical practitioners are likely to have far less experience with them than other forms of delivery.
Continuous education and training using simulators can help medical practitioners stay up to date with the latest research and best practices in managing breech birth. This can help them make informed decisions and manage breech birth more effectively.
By being able to practise techniques and manoeuvres, healthcare professionals can upskill and reduce the risk of associated complications. Ensuring the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
See for yourself.