The Webster Technique: A Natural Approach to Helping Breech Babies Turn
Pregnancy places unique physical demands on a woman’s body, particularly on the pelvis, spine, and supporting ligaments. When these structures are under stress or not moving properly, it can contribute to abnormal fetal positioning—most commonly, a breech presentation.
The Webster Technique is a gentle, specific chiropractic method designed to help restore balance to the pelvis and surrounding soft tissues, creating an environment that encourages optimal fetal positioning and, in many cases, allows breech babies to turn naturally.
What Is a Breech Presentation?
A baby is considered breech when the buttocks or feet are positioned to deliver first instead of the head. This occurs in approximately 3–4% of full-term pregnancies and is associated with increased risk during labor and delivery. Breech positioning often leads to recommendations for cesarean delivery.
While external version procedures are sometimes attempted, many mothers seek conservative, non-invasive options before considering medical intervention.
What Is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specialized chiropractic analysis and adjustment focusing on the pelvis and sacrum. It was developed to address:
Pelvic misalignment
Sacral dysfunction
Tension in the uterine and pelvic ligaments
Imbalance in the muscles that support the uterus
These factors can contribute to intrauterine constraint—meaning the baby does not have optimal space to move into the head-down position.
Rather than directly turning the baby, the Webster Technique works by improving biomechanical function of the pelvis and reducing ligament tension, allowing the uterus to become more symmetrical and relaxed.
How the Webster Technique Helps “Flip” Breech Babies
When pelvic alignment is restored and soft tissue tension is reduced:
The uterus is better supported
Nerve function to the uterus and pelvis improves
Ligament balance allows more space for fetal movement
Mechanical restriction is reduced
This creates an environment where the baby can move into a more favorable position on their own. Many mothers report fetal movement shortly after care begins.
It is important to understand that the chiropractor is not manually turning the baby. The goal is to remove the structural interference that may be preventing the baby from turning.
Is the Webster Technique Safe During Pregnancy?
The Webster Technique is gentle and specifically adapted for pregnant patients. Adjustments use low-force techniques and specialized positioning to ensure comfort and safety for both mother and baby.
Chiropractic care during pregnancy has been shown to help with:
Low back and pelvic pain
Sciatica
Hip discomfort
Postural stress
Pelvic balance and stability
When performed by a doctor trained in prenatal care, it is considered a safe and effective option throughout pregnancy.
When Should the Webster Technique Be Used?
While care can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy, the Webster Technique is commonly utilized when breech positioning is identified, often in the late second or third trimester.
Earlier intervention may improve outcomes by maintaining pelvic balance throughout pregnancy and reducing the likelihood of fetal constraint as the baby grows.
A Natural Option for Expecting Mothers
For mothers hoping to avoid unnecessary medical intervention, the Webster Technique offers a conservative, non-invasive approach to supporting optimal fetal positioning. By addressing the structural and neurological components of pelvic function, chiropractic care helps the body work the way it was designed—supporting both mother and baby during this critical time.
If you are experiencing a breech presentation or pelvic discomfort during pregnancy, consult with a chiropractor trained in the Webster Technique to determine if this approach is appropriate for you.
