Limited evidence suggests that moxibustion may be useful for turning babies from breech presentation (bottom first) to cephalic presentation (head first) for labour.
Breech presentation of babies is common in the mid trimester of pregnancy, and while many babies will turn themselves before the onset of labour, some do not. A baby coming bottom first can have more difficulty being born, and a caesarean section is often suggested. Moxibustion, a type of Chinese medicine which involves burning a herb close to the skin, may be helpful in turning a breech baby when applied to the little toe. The review found that moxibustion may help to correct breech presentation, but studies were small. More evidence is needed concerning the benefits and safety of moxibustion.