What follow-up care is recommended for a patient who has undergone ECV for a breech presentation?

After a patient undergoes external cephalic version (ECV) for a breech presentation, follow-up care should include continued antenatal monitoring to assess fetal wellbeing and presentation. This involves offering abdominal palpation at all appointments after 36+0 weeks to identify the fetal presentation and confirming with ultrasound if breech presentation is suspected again. Women should be informed about the options available for birth, including the possibility of breech vaginal birth, elective caesarean section, or repeat ECV if appropriate. Communication should be clear, supportive, and tailored to the woman's preferences, ensuring she understands the risks, benefits, and implications of each option. Additionally, fetal growth and wellbeing should be monitored through symphysis fundal height measurements and ultrasound scans if indicated by clinical findings. Women should be advised to report any concerns about fetal movements promptly. This follow-up care supports shared decision making and respects the woman's choices regarding mode of birth after ECV ¹.