Moxibustion for Breech Baby
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Moxibustion for breech presentation is one of the most researched applications of traditional Chinese medicine in obstetrics and one that I regularly practise in my clinic. It involves burning dried mugwort (Ai Ye) over the point BL 67 (Zhiyin) — located at the outer corner of the little toe — to encourage a breech baby to turn to the cephalic (head-down) position.
The Evidence
A Cochrane systematic review of randomised controlled trials found that moxibustion at BL 67 used from 33–35 weeks gestation significantly increased the rate of cephalic version (turning) compared to no treatment, with an odds ratio of approximately 2.0. A large Italian RCT by Cardini and Weixin (published in JAMA, 1998) demonstrated a cephalic version rate of 75% in the moxibustion group versus 47% in the control group at 35 weeks. These results have been replicated in multiple subsequent trials. See our full dedicated page on moxibustion for breech presentation.
How It Works
The mechanism is not fully established. Proposed explanations include: stimulation of BL 67 promoting placental oestrogen production, increasing foetal movement and facilitating version; the warmth of moxa stimulating adrenocortical activity; and direct stimulation of the uterus via the bladder meridian connection. In TCM, BL 67 is the jing-well point of the bladder meridian and has a strongly moving, stimulating action.
How to Use It
Moxibustion for breech is ideally started at 33–35 weeks gestation. Treatment involves holding a moxa stick approximately 2–3cm from the BL 67 point on both little toes, for 15–20 minutes per side, once or twice daily for 10–14 consecutive days. I teach the technique to patients and their partners so it can be performed at home. The procedure is stopped if the baby turns, if any discomfort is felt, or at 37 weeks.
To discuss moxibustion for breech, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
