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When a baby is breech, many parents look for options. Any complementary approach should start with your midwife or obstetrician's advice.

An understandable search

Learning that your baby is in a breech position late in pregnancy can bring a rush of questions. It is natural to look up every possible option, and moxibustion often appears in those searches. Any decision, though, needs to take into account how many weeks pregnant you are, your pregnancy history and the advice of the people caring for you and your baby.

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, has undertaken further study in pregnancy support, and she works on the basis that your maternity team leads your care.

Start with your midwife or obstetrician

Before considering any complementary approach, speak with your midwife or obstetrician. They can explain what is recommended for you, which may include monitoring, discussion of external cephalic version or other planning. Once you have that guidance, share the agreed maternity plan with Christine so any discussion fits within it.

Ask Christine about what is known, what is uncertain, the possible risks and the alternatives. A clear and honest conversation is more valuable than reassurance.

No home experiments

Please do not begin a moxibustion routine at home based on a general article or video. Heat, smoke and timing all need careful consideration in pregnancy. Just as importantly, no complementary treatment should delay an assessment or care that your maternity team has recommended.

Contact your maternity unit straight away if you notice reduced baby movements, bleeding, fluid loss, pain or contractions.

Comfort and safety if heat is used

If moxibustion is ever considered with your maternity team's knowledge, agree in advance how you will signal discomfort, and ask about aftercare. Smoke sensitivity, skin sensation and breathing all matter. Instructions should be personal to you rather than copied from another person's experience.

Support in Lane Cove

If you are on the lower North Shore and would like to talk through your questions, Christine can meet with you at the Lane Cove clinic. Bring your maternity notes or a summary of your care plan so the conversation starts on solid ground.