presentation 32 weeks

You might find your bump is making it harder to walk and making you "waddle". That's your body's way of compensating for all that extra weight up front.

What's happening in my body?

Over the next 4 weeks, you'll gain around 450g a week. Your baby will be putting on weight too, with around 1kg of extra fat.

The extra chubbiness will help your baby to stay at the right temperature after they're born. It's very easy for little bodies to get too hot or too cold.

Your baby is probably head down now, ready for birth ("cephalic presentation"). Try not to worry if this is not the case – there's still time.

However, if you get to around week 36 and your baby is not head down, your doctor or midwife might offer ways to encourage your baby to turn into position.

As your baby gets bigger, there will be less space in your womb. You should still feel movements, at the same rate, until you give birth.

If there are any changes to the patterns, or your baby stops moving, contact your midwife or hospital as soon as possible.

Your choice of maternity service

You've probably got a good idea now about where you would like to give birth.

If you're having a planned caesarean section , find out how long you can expect to be in hospital so you can get prepared and make any arrangements you need, for instance care for your other children. The average hospital stay is 3 or 4 days.

Ask as many questions as you like and make sure you're confident with your choice. If you're not sure, you can change your mind.

Find out what other people think of your local NHS maternity services .

If you're worried about how coronavirus might impact your birth plan, visit the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for the most up-to-date advice.

Within 24 hours of giving birth, you'll be asked if you would like your baby to have vitamin K , which is recommended by the Department of Health for all babies.

Vitamin K is important because it helps the blood to clot and can prevent a very rare condition called vitamin K deficiency bleeding, which can cause brain damage and even death. It is usually given as a jab in the thigh and is very safe.

It's your right to refuse the jab or ask for the vitamin to be given by mouth (orally) instead. Decide what is best for your baby and discuss it with your partner.

3rd trimester pregnancy symptoms (at 32 weeks)

You may be feeling more tired than usual. Try and take plenty of rests throughout the day.

Your signs of pregnancy could also include:

• sleeping problems ( week 19 has information on feeling tired )
• stretch marks ( week 17 has information on stretch marks )
• swollen and bleeding gums ( week 13 has information on gum health during pregnancy )
• pains on the side of your baby bump, caused by your expanding womb ("round ligament pains")
• piles ( week 22 has information on piles )
• indigestion and heartburn ( week 25 has information on digestive problems )
• bloating and constipation ( week 10 has information on bloating )
• leg cramps ( week 20 has information on how to deal with cramp )
• feeling hot
• swollen hands and feet
• urine infections
• vaginal infections ( week 15 has information on vaginal health )
• darkened skin on your face or brown patches – this is known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy"
• greasier, spotty skin
• thicker and shinier hair

You may also experience symptoms from earlier weeks, such as:

• mood swings ( week 8 has information on mood swings )
• morning sickness ( week 6 has information on dealing with morning sickness )
• weird pregnancy cravings ( week 5 has information on pregnancy cravings )
• a heightened sense of smell
• sore or leaky breasts ( week 14 has information on breast pain ) – a white milky pregnancy discharge from your vagina and light spotting (seek medical advice for any bleeding)

Read Tommy's guide to common pregnancy symptoms .

What does my baby look like?

Your baby, or foetus, is around 42.4cm long from head to heel. That's about the same length as a bunch of celery.

Your baby is perfectly formed but needs to put on weight – that's what the next few weeks are all about.

Download Tommy's leaflet about baby movements .

Action stations

Have you chosen a pushchair yet? If you're buying one second-hand, check the brakes work and that it's the right height for you.

You might also like to get a baby sling for the first few weeks. Babies love the close contact, and you will too.

Choose a carrier that will support your baby's head and check the straps are secure. Read some tips on what to buy on the NHS website .

This week you could also...

You have maternity rights . You can ask for a risk assessment of your work place to ensure that you're working in a safe environment.

You should not be lifting heavy things and you may need extra breaks, and somewhere to sit.

You can also attend antenatal appointments during paid work time.

It's a good time to tone up your pelvic floor muscles. Gentle exercises can help to prevent leakage when you laugh, sneeze or cough.

Get the muscles going by pretending that you're having a pee and then stopping midflow.

Visit Tommy's for more information on pelvic floor exercises.

Ask your midwife or doctor about online antenatal classes – they may be able to recommend one. The charity Tommy's has lots of useful information on antenatal classes and preparing you for birth .

Ask your partner if they would like to take part in the antenatal classes. Even if you've had children before, antenatal classes are still worth going to as you can meet other parents-to-be.

The NCT offers online antenatal classes with small groups of people that live locally to you.

Do your best to stop smoking and give up alcohol , and go easy on the tea, coffee and anything else with caffeine .

Ask your midwife or GP for support.

To keep bones and muscles healthy, we need vitamin D.

From late March/early April to the end of September, most people make enough vitamin D from sunlight on their skin. However, between October and early March, you should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement because we cannot make enough from sunlight.

Some people should take a vitamin D supplement all year round, find out if this applies to you on the NHS website.

You just need 10 micrograms daily (it's the same for grown-ups and kids). Check if you're entitled to free vitamins .

It's recommended that you do 150 minutes of exercise a week while pregnant .

You could start off with just 10 minutes of daily exercise – perhaps take a brisk walk outside. Check out Sport England's #StayInWorkOut online exercises (scroll to the pregnancy section).

Listen to your body and do what feels right for you.

There's no need to eat for 2.

Now you're in the 3rd trimester, you may need an extra 200 calories a day, but that's not much. It's about the same as 2 slices of wholemeal toast with margarine.

You just need to eat a healthy balanced diet, with a variety of different foods every day, including plenty of fruit and veg. Have a look at our guide to healthy eating in pregnancy .

You may be able to get free milk, fruit and veg through the Healthy Start scheme .

How are you today?

If you're feeling anxious or low, talk to your doctor or midwife who can point you in the right direction to get all the support that you need. You could also discuss your worries with your partner, friends and family.

You may be worried about your relationship, or money, or having somewhere permanent to live.

Don't keep it to yourself – it's important that you ask for help if you need it.

Getting pregnant again is probably the last thing on your mind right now. However, now is a good time to start planning what type of contraception you would like to use after your baby is born.

Getting pregnant again could happen sooner than you realise, and too short a gap between babies is known to cause problems.

Talk to your GP or midwife to help you decide.

You will be offered newborn screening tests for your baby soon after they are born.

These screening tests are recommended by the NHS because they can make sure your baby is given appropriate treatment if needed.

Your decisions about whether or not you want these screening tests will be respected, and healthcare professionals will support you.

Ask your midwife or doctor for more information about newborn screening .

More in week-by-week

As the weeks go by, you're probably feeling really tired now, which is not surprising.

More in week-by-week guide to pregnancy

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Our emails include NHS trusted advice and support, tailored to your stage of pregnancy or baby's age.

Cephalic presentation at 32 weeks

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Pregnancy Week by Week

32 Weeks Pregnant

Key Takeaways at 32 Weeks Pregnant

• Soon, baby will “drop” from up near your ribs to down near your pelvis.
• Baby is most likely positioned head down at this point. Don’t panic if your ob-gyn or midwife says that they’re in breech position . There’s still time for your little one to turn.
• If you’re expecting multiples or have a high-risk pregnancy, your doctor may have ordered a 3D/4D ultrasound . (Yes, you’ll be able to discern baby’s facial features.)
• You might be feeling a little sticky down there. Vaginal discharge picks up in preparation for labor and delivery. (This is a good thing that helps prevent infections!)
• Watch for those Braxton Hicks practice contractions. They can be a bit uncomfortable, but should go away with movement. If they get more intense and more frequent, give a call to your doctor or midwife to make sure it’s not preterm labor .

Ready or not?! At 32 weeks pregnant, baby’s birth still seems far into the future, but you and baby are getting ready in a lot of ways… just in case there’s an early arrival. You’re probably dealing with some end-of-pregnancy to-dos, like telling your health insurance there’ll be a new arrival soon, and figuring out how the heck to install an infant car seat.

Video Highlights at 32 Weeks

3d views: my baby, my body.

See their progress for yourself with our 3D interactive tool.

Baby at Week 32

Baby is getting ready for their descent and, as we mentioned, is likely in the head-down position now. They’re probably feeling even more cramped.

Sudden loud noises may make baby startle by week 32. Fetal hearing is fully formed by about week 29 of pregnancy, which means baby can hear and begin to process a lot of what’s going on outside of the womb. That doesn’t mean baby’s hearing is fully matured: In fact, the period from 25 weeks of pregnancy until baby is about 5 to 6 months old is critical for the development of the ear-brain connection. Stimulation—especially meaningful sounds like speech and music—is critical to help baby learn to discern and understand the world around them.

There’s a reason Grandma will want to pinch baby’s cherubic cheeks. From here on out, baby’s objective is to put on weight—which will make symptoms for you, like breathlessness, even more pronounced. Baby is accumulating fat at a breakneck pace, which they’ll use to keep warm outside of your temperature-controlled womb. At birth, about 14 percent of baby’s body weight will be fat; body fat stores will increase to around 30 percent by the time baby is 6 months old!

How big is baby at 32 weeks?

Your 32-week baby is as big as a squash. Still growing strong, baby measures about 16.7 inches and weighs between 4 and 4.5 pounds at 32 weeks pregnant.

Are babies fully developed at 32 weeks?

They’re getting closer every week as you near the end of pregnancy. Most development is done by now—baby has even started to "practice" breathing!—and the major work left is gaining weight. If baby’s born at 32 weeks, they would still be only around 4-4.5 pounds, which is considered low birth weight.

32 weeks pregnant is how many months?

Thirty-two weeks pregnant in months is around eight months pregnant. (Remember, though, most doctors track your progress in weeks, not months.)

32 week ultrasound

You’ll probably have a 32-week pregnancy checkup, since most OBs like to see their patients about every other week at this point in pregnancy. You probably won’t have a 32 weeks pregnant ultrasound, though—unless you have pregnancy complications or there’s something specific your doctor wants to check. For example, for women who are 32 weeks pregnant with twins, the doctor might want to perform extra monitoring from week 30 on.

Either way, you’re just weeks away from meeting your baby (or babies)! Isn’t it exciting?

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 32

Intensity is building in the symptoms department, since heartburn and contractions tend to get more noticeable in the third trimester. But we’re guessing you’re so excited about baby’s impending arrival, these 32 weeks pregnant symptoms aren’t slowing you down—at least not too much.

More Braxton Hicks contractions

Those “practice contractions” are likely getting more frequent and stronger. (This might be confused with 32 weeks pregnant cramping.) There’s one big difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and the real deal: These guys are painless (they just feel like the uterus is tightening) and go away. Real contractions just keep coming. Women who are 32 weeks pregnant with twins are at higher risk for preterm labor, so definitely watch for contractions that don’t let up.

Darker nipples

Whoa! Those areolas might look darker thanks to hormonal changes. No one knows exactly why, but one theory is they darken so baby can see them better for breastfeeding. Your body is pretty amazing, huh?

Shortness of breath

Don't worry: Baby is getting plenty of air. You’re not, though, so don’t push yourself too hard if you have trouble catching your breath .

Check with your doctor first, but she’ll likely tell you to go ahead and pop an antacid. They’re safe for most moms-to-be to take during pregnancy if you struggle with heartburn .

Leaky boobs

Your breasts are probably noticeably bigger and they may even have begun producing colostrum, which is the thick yellow fluid that baby will eat in the first few days of life. Don’t be surprised to see a little bit leaking at this point.

Vaginal discharge

The increased discharge is your body’s way of preparing for delivery; it prevents infection down there. Keep your eye out for the mucus plug—this thick, gooey (sometimes bloody) substance covers the cervix until a few days (or just hours) before labor, when your body expels it. Another thing to keep an eye on: discharge that seems more like a watery liquid. If you’re having a constant flow that’s more like water than discharge, your water might have broken, causing a slow leak. If that’s the case, call the OB and get to the hospital, stat.

Your Pregnant Belly at 32 Weeks

A 32 weeks pregnant belly should measure about 30 to 34 centimeters from the top of the uterus to the pelvic bone. If you’re 32 weeks pregnant with twins, you’re obviously feeling more weighed down than other 32 weeks pregnant women. And chances are, you’re also even closer to delivery, since the average twin pregnancy is considered full term at 37 weeks, with the typical twin pregnancy lasting 35 to 36 weeks.

How can you tell if baby is head down at 32 weeks?

Sometime between now and around week 34 , baby will “drop” from up near your ribs to down near your pelvis, where they’ll hang out in the head-down position until delivery. When this happens, you may notice you suddenly go from “carrying high” to “carrying low.” This isn’t a guarantee, though; some babies don’t drop until Mom is actually in labor.

Is 32 weeks safe to deliver?

It’s still a little too early to deliver baby at 32 weeks. If babies are born any time before 37 weeks, they are considered premature . There are many different medical treatments available for babies born early, which may include a stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) until baby is ready to go home. Don’t panic—you’ve probably developed a good relationship with your OB at this point, and you can trust you and baby will be in good hands.

Have your support person attend those OB appointments, especially the last few weeks of your pregnancy to help prepare them for labor and delivery. Remind them to be as proactive as possible, when helping, instead of taking a back seat.

PsyD, PMH-C, a clinical psychologist and owner of Orchid Wellness & Mentoring in Cincinnati, Ohio

Tips for 32 Weeks Pregnant

You’ve got this—only about eight weeks left to go! No time like the present; here’s what you can do this week to prioritize your health and that of baby’s.

Smaller is better when it comes to meals

Avoid dreaded heartburn by not filling your plate or going for seconds. Small meals are more manageable for your digestive system if you’ve been dealing with heartburn or acid reflux. Just eat more frequently, about five or six times a day, and continue to avoid foods that are heavy on fat or spiciness.

Maintain good posture

Hunching over can make it harder to breathe—and who needs that when you’re 32 weeks pregnant? Let your lungs fill with much-needed air by sitting or standing up straight; this can also help relieve any third-trimester aches and pains too.

Keep your underwear clean and dry

Yes, this is a good hygiene tip at any time, but especially during pregnancy if you have vaginal discharge. Using a pantiliner or wearing cotton underwear and changing it when needed not only keeps you comfortable, but it may also make it easier to monitor discharge for any signs of color or texture changes that could need medical attention.

Take a short walk

If you’ve been lying down and your Braxton Hicks contractions aren’t letting up, a little exercise may do the trick. Try walking for a bit, but don’t go too far—if the contractions don’t stop, they may be the real thing, and you’ll need to call your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do cervix checks start.

Most moms don’t need cervical checks until they have signs of labor. In a cervical exam, your practitioner will insert a gloved hand into the vagina to check whether your cervix has dilated (opened) or effaced (thinned), which are signs that your body is preparing for labor.

Some practitioners do perform regular cervical exams in the final weeks of pregnancy, but you typically can ask them to forgo these checks. Your practitioner may recommend cervical exams for other reasons, including if you’re at risk for preterm birth or you need to be induced for medical reasons (for example, if you have severe preeclampsia).

Why do I experience nausea after eating during pregnancy?

Nausea at this late stage of pregnancy is often due to gastrointestinal reflex disease (GERD). While you might associate GERD with heartburn—that unpleasant burning sensation in your chest—it can also cause nausea and vomiting. GERD is extremely common in the third trimester, due to hormones and the pressure of your growing bump on your stomach.

To relieve GERD, try to eat smaller meals more often (instead of three big meals per day) and cut back on rich and fatty foods. Talk to your practitioner if symptoms continue to bother you, or if you’re concerned for any other reason. Your doctor may recommend pregnancy-safe medications, such as antacids or alginates.

Why am I feeling pressure in my pelvis and how can I relieve it?

Later in pregnancy, your baby begins to engage in your pelvis—or move from higher up in your abdomen down toward your cervix, in preparation for birth. This may cause you to feel some pressure in your pelvis. Pelvic pressure and pain can also be a symptom of pelvic girdle pain, which happens when hormones loosen up your ligaments and your growing baby puts pressure on your joints.

To relieve the pressure, stay active, get up and move around every 30 minutes when you’re sitting, stand on two legs (not one), and keep your legs together when you turn over in bed. Be sure to talk to your practitioner if it’s really bothering you: They may recommend working with a physical therapist, who can teach you exercises to address the discomfort.

Is it too late to get a prenatal massage? What pressure points should be avoided?

Prenatal massage is safe in most cases throughout pregnancy—and it can help improve sleep, reduce stress and relieve common aches and pains. That said, be sure to see a massage therapist who is trained in prenatal massage, and check with your doctor first if you have any pregnancy complications or health conditions.

Some techniques can be dangerous if you have blood clots and potentially cause uterine contractions and even induce premature labor. Massage therapists should avoid putting too much pressure on the abdomen and back, as well as around your ankles and your big, second and baby toes.

What are signs my amniotic fluid level is healthy (or not)?

Oligohydramnios (low levels of amniotic fluid) and polyhydramnios (too much amniotic fluid) are relatively rare, affecting between 1 to 4 percent of all pregnant people before their due dates. They can be signs of a more serious condition, such as diabetes or preeclampsia.

You can rely on your practitioner to keep an eye on amniotic fluid levels (that’s one thing they’re checking when they measure your bump). They may suspect abnormal amniotic fluid levels if your uterus measures too big or too small for how far along you are in your pregnancy. Other signs include shortness of breath, swelling in the feet and ankles, pain around your bump, fluid leaking from your vagina, and not gaining enough pregnancy weight.

Phew, sleeping was rough. I'm a back sleeper, and rolling from one side to the other was brutal. The one thing that did help was a massive pregnancy pillow. It was shaped like a U so it could be scrunched, tucked, and manipulated in almost every way for maximum comfort.

Lauren K., mom of two

Pregnancy Checklist at Week 32

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Kaiser Permanente, Pregnancy: Dropping (Lightening) , July 2023

Cigna, Ultrasound in Pregnancy (including 3D, 4D and 5D Ultrasound) , June 2023

Mayo Clinic, Labor and Delivery, Postpartum Care

Cleveland Clinic, Signs That Labor Is 24 to 48 Hours Away , April 2021

StatPearls, Braxton Hicks Contractions , August 2023

American Pregnancy Association, 32 Weeks Pregnant

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fetal Age and Patterns of Human Fetal Breathing Movements , July 1980

Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Prematurity

Mayo Clinic, Prenatal Care: 3rd Trimester Visits , July 2022

StatPearls, Sonography 3rd Trimester and Placenta Assessment, Protocols, and Interpretation , June 2023

Ultrasound, Ultrasound Surveillance in Twin Pregnancy: An Update for Practitioners , August 2022

Mayo Clinic, 3rd Trimester Pregnancy: What to Expect , March 2022

Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, Anatomy and Physiology of the Breast during Pregnancy and Lactation , August 2020

Harvard Medical School, Shortness of Breath In Pregnancy

University of Chicago Medicine, GERD and Pregnancy

StatPearls, Anatomy, Colostrum , February 2023

Cleveland Clinic, Water Breaking , October 2022

Cleveland Clinic, Fundal Height , January 2022

Cleveland Clinic, Twin Pregnancy , June 2022

Cleveland Clinic, Fetal Positions for Birth , March 2020

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, How to Tell When Labor Begins , November 2021

March of Dimes, Premature Babies , October 2019

Cleveland Clinic, Heartburn During Pregnancy , January 2021

Tufts Medical Center, Trouble Breathing During Pregnancy

Women’s Health, Role of Female Intimate Hygiene in Vulvovaginal Health: Global Hygiene Practices and Product Usage , September 2017

Learn how we ensure the accuracy of our content through our editorial and medical review process .

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29 to 32 weeks pregnant

You are now in the third trimester of your pregnancy. Your baby continues to be very active. You may be aware of lots of movements.

There is no set number of movements you should feel each day. Every pregnancy is different.

You should be aware of your baby's own pattern of movements .

Urgent advice: Contact your midwife or hospital immediately if:

• there is a change in your baby's pattern of movement

Week 29 to 31 of pregnancy

The sucking reflex is developing by now. Your baby can suck its thumb or fingers.

They are growing plumper and the skin begins to look less wrinkled and much smoother. Breathing movements are more common now.

The white, greasy vernix (protective material) on their skin disappears. The soft, furry lanugo (fine hair) also begins to fall off.

Your baby's eyes can focus now. Their lungs are developing. They will not be able to breathe on their own until about 36 weeks.

If your baby was born now, they would have an excellent chance of survival (more than 9 in 10). They would still need help to breathe.

Week 32 of pregnancy

At 32 weeks, the baby is usually lying with their head pointing downwards, ready for birth. This is known as cephalic presentation.

If your baby is not lying head down at this stage, it's not a cause for concern – there's still time for them to turn .

Your baby's oesophagus (food pipe or gullet) works. They are still swallowing amniotic fluid. This is then released as pee. Their memory is also beginning to form.

Related topic

33-36 weeks pregnant

Page last reviewed: 1 November 2022 Next review due: 1 November 2025

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StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.

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Breech presentation.

Caron J. Gray ; Meaghan M. Shanahan .

Affiliations

Last Update: November 6, 2022 .

• Continuing Education Activity

Breech presentation refers to the fetus in the longitudinal lie with the buttocks or lower extremity entering the pelvis first. The three types of breech presentation include frank breech, complete breech, and incomplete breech. In a frank breech, the fetus has flexion of both hips, and the legs are straight with the feet near the fetal face, in a pike position. This activity reviews the cause and pathophysiology of breech presentation and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management.

• Describe the pathophysiology of breech presentation.
• Review the physical exam of a patient with a breech presentation.
• Summarize the treatment options for breech presentation.
• Explain the importance of improving care coordination among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes for patients affected by breech presentation.
• Introduction

Breech presentation refers to the fetus in the longitudinal lie with the buttocks or lower extremity entering the pelvis first. The three types of breech presentation include frank breech, complete breech, and incomplete breech. In a frank breech, the fetus has flexion of both hips, and the legs are straight with the feet near the fetal face, in a pike position. The complete breech has the fetus sitting with flexion of both hips and both legs in a tuck position. Finally, the incomplete breech can have any combination of one or both hips extended, also known as footling (one leg extended) breech, or double footling breech (both legs extended). [1] [2] [3]

Clinical conditions associated with breech presentation include those that may increase or decrease fetal motility, or affect the vertical polarity of the uterine cavity. Prematurity, multiple gestations, aneuploidies, congenital anomalies, Mullerian anomalies, uterine leiomyoma, and placental polarity as in placenta previa are most commonly associated with a breech presentation.  Also, a previous history of breech presentation at term increases the risk of repeat breech presentation at term in subsequent pregnancies. [4] [5] These are discussed in more detail in the pathophysiology section.

• Epidemiology

Breech presentation occurs in 3% to 4% of all term pregnancies. A higher percentage of breech presentations occurs with less advanced gestational age. At 32 weeks, 7% of fetuses are breech, and 28 weeks or less, 25% are breech.

Specifically, following one breech delivery, the recurrence rate for the second pregnancy was nearly 10%, and for a subsequent third pregnancy, it was 27%. Prior cesarean delivery has also been described by some to increase the incidence of breech presentation two-fold.

• Pathophysiology

As mentioned previously, the most common clinical conditions or disease processes that result in the breech presentation are those that affect fetal motility or the vertical polarity of the uterine cavity. [6] [7]

Conditions that change the vertical polarity or the uterine cavity, or affect the ease or ability of the fetus to turn into the vertex presentation in the third trimester include:

• Mullerian anomalies: Septate uterus, bicornuate uterus, and didelphys uterus 
• Placentation: Placenta previa as the placenta is occupying the inferior portion of the uterine cavity. Therefore, the presenting part cannot engage
• Uterine leiomyoma: Mainly larger myomas located in the lower uterine segment, often intramural or submucosal, that prevent engagement of the presenting part.
• Prematurity
• Aneuploidies and fetal neuromuscular disorders commonly cause hypotonia of the fetus, inability to move effectively
• Congenital anomalies:  Fetal sacrococcygeal teratoma, fetal thyroid goiter
• Polyhydramnios: Fetus is often in unstable lie, unable to engage
• Oligohydramnios: Fetus is unable to turn to vertex due to lack of fluid
• Laxity of the maternal abdominal wall: Uterus falls forward, the fetus is unable to engage in the pelvis.

The risk of cord prolapse varies depending on the type of breech. Incomplete or footling breech carries the highest risk of cord prolapse at 15% to 18%, while complete breech is lower at 4% to 6%, and frank breech is uncommon at 0.5%.

• History and Physical

During the physical exam, using the Leopold maneuvers, palpation of a hard, round, mobile structure at the fundus and the inability to palpate a presenting part in the lower abdomen superior to the pubic bone or the engaged breech in the same area, should raise suspicion of a breech presentation.

During a cervical exam, findings may include the lack of a palpable presenting part, palpation of a lower extremity, usually a foot, or for the engaged breech, palpation of the soft tissue of the fetal buttocks may be noted. If the patient has been laboring, caution is warranted as the soft tissue of the fetal buttocks may be interpreted as caput of the fetal vertex.

Any of these findings should raise suspicion and ultrasound should be performed.

Diagnosis of a breech presentation can be accomplished through abdominal exam using the Leopold maneuvers in combination with the cervical exam. Ultrasound should confirm the diagnosis.

On ultrasound, the fetal lie and presenting part should be visualized and documented. If breech presentation is diagnosed, specific information including the specific type of breech, the degree of flexion of the fetal head, estimated fetal weight, amniotic fluid volume, placental location, and fetal anatomy review (if not already done previously) should be documented.

• Treatment / Management

Expertise in the delivery of the vaginal breech baby is becoming less common due to fewer vaginal breech deliveries being offered throughout the United States and in most industrialized countries. The Term Breech Trial (TBT), a well-designed, multicenter, international, randomized controlled trial published in 2000 compared planned vaginal delivery to planned cesarean delivery for the term breech infant. The investigators reported that delivery by planned cesarean resulted in significantly lower perinatal mortality, neonatal mortality, and serious neonatal morbidity. Also, there was no significant difference in maternal morbidity or mortality between the two groups. Since that time, the rate of term breech infants delivered by planned cesarean has increased dramatically. Follow-up studies to the TBT have been published looking at maternal morbidity and outcomes of the children at two years. Although these reports did not show any significant difference in the risk of death and neurodevelopmental, these studies were felt to be underpowered. [8] [9] [10] [11]

Since the TBT, many authors since have argued that there are still some specific situations that vaginal breech delivery is a potential, safe alternative to planned cesarean. Many smaller retrospective studies have reported no difference in neonatal morbidity or mortality using these specific criteria.

The initial criteria used in these reports were similar: gestational age greater than 37 weeks, frank or complete breech presentation, no fetal anomalies on ultrasound examination, adequate maternal pelvis, and estimated fetal weight between 2500 g and 4000 g. In addition, the protocol presented by one report required documentation of fetal head flexion and adequate amniotic fluid volume, defined as a 3-cm vertical pocket. Oxytocin induction or augmentation was not offered, and strict criteria were established for normal labor progress. CT pelvimetry did determine an adequate maternal pelvis.

Despite debate on both sides, the current recommendation for the breech presentation at term includes offering external cephalic version (ECV) to those patients that meet criteria, and for those whom are not candidates or decline external cephalic version, a planned cesarean section for delivery sometime after 39 weeks.

Regarding the premature breech, gestational age will determine the mode of delivery. Before 26 weeks, there is a lack of quality clinical evidence to guide mode of delivery. One large retrospective cohort study recently concluded that from 28 to 31 6/7 weeks, there is a significant decrease in perinatal morbidity and mortality in a planned cesarean delivery versus intended vaginal delivery, while there is no difference in perinatal morbidity and mortality in gestational age 32 to 36 weeks. Of note, due to lack of recruitment, no prospective clinical trials are examining this issue.

• Differential Diagnosis
• Face and brow presentation
• Fetal anomalies
• Fetal death
• Grand multiparity
• Multiple pregnancies
• Oligohydramnios
• Pelvis Anatomy
• Preterm labor
• Primigravida
• Uterine anomalies
• Pearls and Other Issues

In light of the decrease in planned vaginal breech deliveries, thus the decrease in expertise in managing this clinical scenario, it is prudent that policies requiring simulation and instruction in the delivery technique for vaginal breech birth are established to care for the emergency breech vaginal delivery.

• Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

A breech delivery is usually managed by an obstetrician, labor and delivery nurse, anesthesiologist and a neonatologist. The ultimate decison rests on the obstetrician. To prevent complications, today cesarean sections are performed and experienced with vaginal deliveries of breech presentation is limited. For healthcare workers including the midwife who has no experience with a breech delivery, it is vital to communicate with an obstetrician, otherwise one risks litigation if complications arise during delivery. [12] [13] [14]

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Disclosure: Caron Gray declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Meaghan Shanahan declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

This book is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) ( http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ ), which permits others to distribute the work, provided that the article is not altered or used commercially. You are not required to obtain permission to distribute this article, provided that you credit the author and journal.

• Cite this Page Gray CJ, Shanahan MM. Breech Presentation. [Updated 2022 Nov 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.

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Similar articles in PubMed

• [What effect does leg position in breech presentation have on mode of delivery and early neonatal morbidity?]. [Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol. 1997] [What effect does leg position in breech presentation have on mode of delivery and early neonatal morbidity?]. Krause M, Fischer T, Feige A. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol. 1997 Jul-Aug; 201(4):128-35.
• The effect of intra-uterine breech position on postnatal motor functions of the lower limbs. [Early Hum Dev. 1993] The effect of intra-uterine breech position on postnatal motor functions of the lower limbs. Sival DA, Prechtl HF, Sonder GH, Touwen BC. Early Hum Dev. 1993 Mar; 32(2-3):161-76.
• The influence of the fetal leg position on the outcome in vaginally intended deliveries out of breech presentation at term - A FRABAT prospective cohort study. [PLoS One. 2019] The influence of the fetal leg position on the outcome in vaginally intended deliveries out of breech presentation at term - A FRABAT prospective cohort study. Jennewein L, Allert R, Möllmann CJ, Paul B, Kielland-Kaisen U, Raimann FJ, Brüggmann D, Louwen F. PLoS One. 2019; 14(12):e0225546. Epub 2019 Dec 2.
• Review Breech vaginal delivery at or near term. [Semin Perinatol. 2003] Review Breech vaginal delivery at or near term. Tunde-Byass MO, Hannah ME. Semin Perinatol. 2003 Feb; 27(1):34-45.
• Review [Breech Presentation: CNGOF Guidelines for Clinical Practice - Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Complications]. [Gynecol Obstet Fertil Senol. 2...] Review [Breech Presentation: CNGOF Guidelines for Clinical Practice - Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Complications]. Mattuizzi A. Gynecol Obstet Fertil Senol. 2020 Jan; 48(1):70-80. Epub 2019 Nov 1.

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Breech Position: What It Means if Your Baby Is Breech

Medical review policy, latest update:.

Medically reviewed for accuracy.

What does it mean if a baby is breech?

What are the different types of breech positions, what causes a baby to be breech, recommended reading, how can you tell if your baby is in a breech position, what does it mean to turn a breech baby, how can you turn a breech baby, how does labor usually start with a breech baby.

If your cervix dilates too slowly, if your baby doesn’t move down the birth canal steadily or if other problems arise, you’ll likely have a C-section. Talk your options over with your practitioner now to be prepared. Remember that though you may feel disappointed things didn’t turn out exactly as you envisioned, these feelings will melt away once your bundle of joy safely enters the world.

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What Is Cephalic Position?

The ideal fetal position for labor and delivery

• Why It's Best

Risks of Other Positions

• Determining Position
• Turning a Fetus

The cephalic position is when a fetus is head down when it is ready to enter the birth canal. This is one of a few variations of how a fetus can rest in the womb and is considered the ideal one for labor and delivery.

About 96% of babies are born in the cephalic position. Most settle into it between the 32nd and 36th weeks of pregnancy . Your healthcare provider will monitor the fetus's position during the last weeks of gestation to ensure this has happened by week 36.

If the fetus is not in the cephalic position at that point, the provider may try to turn it. If this doesn't work, some—but not all—practitioners will attempt to deliver vaginally, while others will recommend a Cesarean (C-section).

Getty Images

Why Is the Cephalic Position Best?

During labor, contractions dilate the cervix so the fetus has adequate room to come through the birth canal. The cephalic position is the easiest and safest way for the baby to pass through the birth canal.

If the fetus is in a noncephalic position, delivery becomes more challenging. Different fetal positions have a range of difficulties and varying risks.

A small percentage of babies present in noncephalic positions. This can pose risks both to the fetus and the mother, and make labor and delivery more challenging. It can also influence the way in which someone can deliver.

A fetus may actually find itself in any of these positions throughout pregnancy, as the move about the uterus. But as they grow, there will be less room to tumble around and they will settle into a final position.

It is at this point that noncephalic positions can pose significant risks.

Cephalic Posterior

A fetus may also present in an occiput or cephalic posterior position. This means they are positioned head down, but they are facing the abdomen instead of the back.

This position is also nicknamed "sunny-side up."

Presenting this way increases the chance of a painful and prolonged delivery.

There are three different types of breech fetal positioning:

• Frank breech: The legs are up with the feet near the head.
• Footling breech: One or both legs is lowered over the cervix.
• Complete breech: The fetus is bottom-first with knees bent.

A vaginal delivery is most times a safe way to deliver. But with breech positions, a vaginal delivery can be complicated.

When a baby is born in the breech position, the largest part—its head—is delivered last. This can result in them getting stuck in the birth canal (entrapped). This can cause injury or death.

The umbilical cord may also be damaged or slide down into the mouth of the womb, which can reduce or cut off the baby's oxygen supply.

Some providers are still comfortable performing a vaginal birth as long as the fetus is doing well. But breech is always a riskier delivery position compared with the cephalic position, and most cases require a C-section.

Likelihood of a Breech Baby

You are more likely to have a breech baby if you:

• Go into early labor before you're full term
• Have an abnormally shaped uterus, fibroids , or too much amniotic fluid
• Are pregnant with multiples
• Have placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix)

Transverse Lie

In transverse lie position, the fetus is presenting sideways across the uterus rather than vertically. They may be:

• Down, with the back facing the birth canal
• With one shoulder pointing toward the birth canal
• Up, with the hands and feet facing the birth canal

If a transverse lie is not corrected before labor, a C-section will be required. This is typically the case.

Determining Fetal Position

Your healthcare provider can determine if your baby is in cephalic presentation by performing a physical exam and ultrasound.

In the final weeks of pregnancy, your healthcare provider will feel your lower abdomen with their hands to assess the positioning of the baby. This includes where the head, back, and buttocks lie

If your healthcare provider senses that the fetus is in a breech position, they can use ultrasound to confirm their suspicion.

Turning a Fetus So They Are in Cephalic Position

External cephalic version (ECV) is a common, noninvasive procedure to turn a breech baby into cephalic position while it's still in the uterus.

This is only considered if a healthcare provider monitors presentation progress in the last trimester and notices that a fetus is maintaining a noncephalic position as your delivery date approaches.

External Cephalic Version (ECV)

ECV involves the healthcare provider applying pressure to your stomach to turn the fetus from the outside. They will attempt to rotate the head forward or backward and lift the buttocks in an upward position. Sometimes, they use ultrasound to help guide the process.

The best time to perform ECV is about 37 weeks of pregnancy. Afterward, the fetal heart rate will be monitored to make sure it’s within normal levels. You should be able to go home after having ECV done.

ECV has a 50% to 60% success rate. However, even if it does work, there is still a chance the fetus will return to the breech position before birth.

Natural Methods For Turning a Fetus

There are also natural methods that can help turn a fetus into cephalic position. There is no medical research that confirms their efficacy, however.

• Changing your position: Sometimes a fetus will move when you get into certain positions. Two specific movements that your provider may recommend include: Getting on your hands and knees and gently rocking back and forth. Another you could try is pushing your hips up in the air while laying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor (bridge pose).
• Playing stimulating sounds: Fetuses gravitate to sound. You may be successful at luring a fetus out of breech position by playing music or a recording of your voice near your lower abdomen.
• Chiropractic care: A chiropractor can try the Webster technique. This is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment which enables chiropractors to establish balance in the pregnant person's pelvis and reduce undue stress to the uterus and supporting ligaments.
• Acupuncture: This is a considerably safe way someone can try to turn a fetus. Some practitioners incorporate moxibustion—the burning of dried mugwort on certain areas of the body—because they believe it will enhance the chances of success.

A Word From Verywell

While most babies are born in cephalic position at delivery, this is not always the case. And while some fetuses can be turned, others may be more stubborn.

This may affect your labor and delivery wishes. Try to remember that having a healthy baby, and staying well yourself, are your ultimate priorities. That may mean diverting from your best laid plans.

Speaking to your healthcare provider about turning options and the safest route of delivery may help you adjust to this twist and feel better about how you will move ahead.

Glezerman M. Planned vaginal breech delivery: current status and the need to reconsider . Expert Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2012;7(2):159-166. doi:10.1586/eog.12.2

Cleveland Clinic. Fetal positions for birth .

MedlinePlus. Breech birth .

UT Southwestern Medical Center. Can you turn a breech baby around?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. If your baby is breech .

Roecker CB. Breech repositioning unresponsive to Webster technique: coexistence of oligohydramnios .  Journal of Chiropractic Medicine . 2013;12(2):74-78. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2013.06.003

By Cherie Berkley, MS Berkley is a journalist with a certification in global health from Johns Hopkins University and a master's degree in journalism.

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What Is a Transverse Baby?

Although rare, a baby can be in a transverse lie position in the third trimester. Here's what that means and how it impacts delivery.

What Does Transverse Lie Mean?

What are the causes of a transverse lie position, what are the possible risks and complications, how can the transverse lie position affect pregnancy, what about delivery, can you turn a transverse baby.

Getty Images

During pregnancy, the fetus moves around into different fetal positions , but most end up in the optimal head down, face down (cephalic occiput anterior) position in the last few weeks. When the fetus doesn’t move into the cephalic position for birth, it’s called fetal malpresentation.

One of the rarest positions is the transverse lie, where the fetus lies horizontally, often with one shoulder down or pressing against the birth canal. If you have a transverse baby at term, the provider will intervene because a vaginal delivery is not possible.

Here’s all you need to know about transverse lie causes and how it may affect pregnancy and delivery.   

The transverse lie position is when the fetus lies across the pregnant person’s abdomen horizontally. Because the shoulder is often in the pelvic inlet, it is also sometimes called shoulder presentation. But the fetus can also have its back facing the birth canal or with feet and hands facing it.

The chances of the baby being in the sideways position at term are only around 1 in 300. But before term, at 32 weeks gestation, it’s as high as 1 in 50.

“Transverse lie is normal in the first trimester, common in the second, unusual in the third, and it’s not a position where vaginal birth is possible,” says Gail Tully, CPM, creator of Spinning Babies, a website which offers ways to ease a baby’s rotation through the pelvis based on its position. 

Often, a clear cause or risk factor for a transverse lie position is unknown. “But two of the most common risk factors for transverse lie at term include having extra amniotic fluid —often associated with diabetes but can be found on its own—and multiple gestation , such as twins or triplets,” says Layan Alrahmani, MD , maternal and fetal medicine specialist and assistant professor in obstetrics and gynecology at Loyola University Medical Center. 

Other possible risk factors for transverse lie include: 

• Multiparity (previous births may lead to lax abdominal muscles)
• Premature labor
• Low amniotic fluid
• Placenta previa (placenta is covering the pregnant person’s cervix)
• Pelvic, uterine, or fetal abnormalities (the latter is more common in primiparity, or first time births)

“Sometimes the baby is in the position for a reason,” says Karolyn Zambrotta, CNM , an obstetrics and gynecology specialist. “And after the doctor does the C-section you’ll find the problem, like a short or tight umbilical cord.” 

Transverse lie at term can be risky for both the pregnant person and baby. 

“The transverse lie is frequently found early in the pregnancy. But if the baby does not change position, then a vaginal delivery cannot occur and we have to plan differently,” says Carolina Bibbo, MD , maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “If the water were to break when the baby is in a transverse lie position, the cord could prolapse which is an obstetrical emergency.”  

Other possible complications include:

• Obstructed labor
• Uterine rupture
• Birth trauma
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Birth defects 

Some pregnant people feel abdominal and back pain during pregnancy when the fetus is in the sideways position. This is related to the uterus being stretched in different ways and can cause tightening in the ribs and cramping lungs. If your health care provider approves, you can try deep breathing and gentle yoga exercises at home to help relieve pain and encourage the fetus to turn. 

If the health care provider still suspects the fetus is lying horizontal at 36 weeks, an ultrasound will be performed to confirm. Because a baby in the transverse lie position cannot be delivered vaginally, your providers will develop an alternate birth plan which can include a procedure called external cephalic version (ECV) to try and turn the fetus for vaginal delivery, or a C-section.

In the case of multiples, triplets are almost always delivered via C-section. But for twins, if the first is head down, the second may drop into the cephalic position for normal delivery having more room after the first one comes out. “You could also try ECV or internal podalic version (IPV) on the second twin if needed,” says Dr. Alrahmani. “It’s really case by case and depends on the provider’s experience and preference too.” 

After 34 weeks, it is very unlikely for a fetus in transverse lie to spontaneously change to the optimal head down position. But, in some cases, it is possible to turn a transverse baby.

Natural methods

If the fetus is not head down by 32 weeks, and there are no health concerns, midwives like Zambrotta might first recommend trying some natural techniques. As Dr. Bibbo notes, the data is limited for different approaches but yoga positions can help in some cases. 

Low-risk methods to encourage transverse babies to turn include sound or light (putting music or a bright light near the bottom of the uterus), temperature (placing something cold like frozen peas behind the head and something warm like a rice-filled sock at the bottom of the stomach), and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) like moxibustion , which involves heating acupuncture points with a stick of mugwort.

Small studies have shown that the Webster technique, a gentle chiropractic approach that aligns the pelvis, can help correct fetal malpresentation. And the forward leaning inversion, also developed by a chiropractor, is the most effective position for transverse lie babies, according to Tully, who trains labor and delivery nurses on body balance techniques. 

Always speak with your health care professional before trying any methods to turn the fetus.

Intervention

If natural methods have not helped by 36 weeks, your provider will likely want to try an ECV in which they use their hands to put pressure on your belly to try and turn the fetus head down. This procedure should be done in a hospital setting to monitor the fetal heart rate, and for the rare case where an emergency C-section is needed. Possible complications include placental abruption, fetal heart rate abnormalities (FHR), premature rupture of the membranes , preterm labor, fetal distress, and vaginal bleeding. 

ECV may not be safe if you have placenta previa, a low amount of amniotic fluid, a significant uterine abnormality, vaginal bleeding, high blood pressure, multiples (before delivery of the first twin), or fetal distress.

“In general, the success rate for external cephalic version is 60% of babies,” explains Dr. Bibbo. “But there’s a greater chance for ECV to turn a fetus in transverse lie than in a breech position.”

A baby in the transverse lie position cannot fit through the pregnant person’s pelvis. If gentle exercises, chiropractic techniques, or other natural methods don’t help your baby turn by 36 weeks, you may be a candidate for ECV to move the baby into the optimal head down position for birth. But if ECV doesn’t work, then the health care provider will schedule a C-section.

Whatever ends up being needed to ensure the safety of both parent and fetus, it's always important to ask any questions you may have. That includes information on postpartum recovery should you need a C-section.

Chapter 26: Transverse Lie . Oxorn-Foote Human Labor & Birth, 7e . 2023.

Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture and Moxibustion in Pregnant Women with Noncephalic Presentation: An Overview of Systematic Reviews . Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine . 2019.

The Webster Technique: a chiropractic technique with obstetric implications . J Manipulative Physiol Ther . 2002.

External Cephalic Version . StatPearls. 2022.

External Cephalic Version . Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies (Seventh Edition) , 2017.

External Cephalic Version: A Dying Art Worth Reviving . J Obstet Gynaecol India . 2018.

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32-36 Weeks Pre-Consult Presentation

Our Pediatrix Medical Group practice is made of neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners who specialize in the care of newborn infants, including those born prematurely.

We are pleased to provide this 32-36 Weeks Pre-Consult Presentation to you and your family in preparation for future discussions about your premature infant. 

We understand the situation you and your family are in is full of mixed emotion. This information is useful to help start a conversation that will allow you to make more informed decisions about the care you choose for your baby. 

While it is not intended as professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, reviewing the information before our face-to-face consultation will allow you to formulate questions about your journey and enable us to help you through this difficult time. 

To begin, please watch this first video.

Click each box below to learn more about a particular topic.

Breathing support and respiratory distress syndrome (rds).

A problem in which a baby, usually a premature infant, has trouble breathing. RDS happens when the baby’s lungs are underdeveloped.

Retinopathy of Prematurity

A problem with the blood vessels in a baby’s eyes potentially causing decreased vision or blindness.

Premature infants are at higher risk of developing infections.

Bradycardia

A decrease in the normal heart rate often seen in premature infants.

A low red blood cell count.

Donor Human Milk

The use of donor human milk is a way to give a baby breast milk when mothers’ own milk isn’t available.

Nutrition Support

In addition to feedings, we use specialized fluids and/or dietary supplements to provide needed nutrition.

Feeding Your Preterm Baby

Your baby may be able to eat by mouth or may require feedings to be given by a temporary feeding tube.

What's Required Before Your Baby Can Go Home

We look forward to caring for you and your family. 

City holds Downtown South Bend 2045 Plan presentations during 'Design Week'

SOUTH BEND — Residents and other stakeholders are invited to review preliminary design concepts and share their ideas for the next stage in the development of the Downtown South Bend 2045 Plan during a series of public meetings through June 6.

Design Week presentations take place at the following locations and times:

• Design Week Public Kickoff: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 3 at the Howard Park Event Center, 219 S. St. Louis Blvd.

Overview of the week’s activities, review of input received during the February/March visioning workshops and through the online survey, opportunity to comment on key themes that will help form the downtown plan.

• Open House: noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 at the Howard Park Event Center, 219 S. St. Louis Blvd.

A brief presentation of initial design ideas, opportunity to comment on initial plan direction.

• Final Presentation: 6 p.m. Thursday, June 6 at the Leighton Auditorium, St. Joseph County Public Library’s Community Learning Center, 305 S. Michigan St.

Full presentation of draft downtown plan concepts and priorities.

Downtown to the Dome: Seven ways that this new trail could unite Notre Dame, South Bend and other trails

In a press release, Mayor James Mueller asked for the public’s input in designing the future of downtown South Bend, which, he said, “is on the cusp of transformational growth” because of the multi-billion-dollar investments announced by GM-Samsung and Amazon Web Services west of the city in the Indiana Enterprise Center.

“The UDA team is excited to be back in South Bend spending the week designing with the community and stakeholders,” Megan O’Hara, principal at Urban Design Associates, said in the press release. “We look forward to building on the ideas we’ve heard through surveys, public meetings, and workshops to facilitate a collaborative vision for the future of Downtown South Bend."

For more information on the Downtown South Bend 2045 plan process, visit together.southbendin.gov/downtownplan .

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32 NFL Teams in 32 Days: It’s All About Jerod Mayo and Drake Maye in New England

Gilberto manzano | 1 hour ago.

• New England Patriots

Welcome to 32 teams in 32 days. To get us through the offseason, we’ll be taking a closer look at every team in the NFL, in order of projected 2024 win totals. Up next: the Patriots.

After going from two decades of excellence to winning only four games last season, Patriots owner Robert Kraft fired Bill Belichick and turned to Jerod Mayo to begin a new era with rookie quarterback Drake Maye . 

But the New England Patriots don’t plan on handing the starting job to the No. 3 pick in the draft. Instead, they’re going to make Maye earn it by competing against veteran Jacoby Brissett in training camp.

Whether it’s Maye or Brissett, the Patriots’ offense could have an uphill battle with roster concerns at the skill positions and on the offensive line. The Patriots re-signed versatile offensive lineman Mike Onwenu, but have plenty of inexperience and it doesn’t help that Cole Strange might not be ready for the start of the season because of injury. 

The Patriots are going to need to decide whether it’s worth it to trot out Maye with a poor supporting cast. But there might be a 2023 sixth-round pick who could make life easier for him. 

The Patriots’ defense, on the other hand, has the makings of turning into a top-10 unit under the guidance of Mayo, who has coached on that side of the ball in New England for the past five seasons. They have a strong core group, with defensive tackle Christian Barmore, edge rusher Matthew Judon, cornerback Christian Gonzalez and safety Kyle Dugger. If the defense dominates, the Patriots will surprise the football public and win more than four games this season.  

Biggest gamble this offseason: Firing Belichick, hiring Mayo

It’s no secret that Kraft and Belichick had somewhat of a rocky relationship in the lead up to Kraft firing the legendary head coach in January. It was a delicate situation for Kraft, and maybe one that wasn’t handled properly on either side. But Kraft at least had a succession plan, one that he kept intact whenever Mayo had coaching opportunities elsewhere. Kraft has had high expectations for Mayo since he joined Belichick’s coaching staff in 2019. Now the team owner will find out whether he made the right decision by promoting Mayo to head coach without interviewing other candidates, which is a gamble in itself. That’s a lot of pressure for Mayo, especially with a roster that might not be ready to push for the postseason for another year or two.  

Toughest stretch of the season: Weeks 1 to 6

The Patriots are currently underdogs in every game this season, according to odds at DraftKings Sportsbook . But it might not get tougher than the first six weeks of the season. New England starts on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals, followed by a home game against the Seattle Seahawks before going back on the road for back-to-back games against Aaron Rodgers’s New York Jets and the defending NFC champion San Francisco 49ers. They then return home to host the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans. And it doesn’t get easier from there with the Jacksonville Jaguars in London for Week 7.

Breakout player to watch: WR DeMario Douglas

The Patriots’ receiving corps is regarded as one of the weakest in the NFL, but football pundits might be overlooking what Douglas accomplished as a sixth-round rookie last season. After shining as a camp standout, Douglas stepped up late in the season for a Patriots’ offense desperately needing playmakers. Douglas was targeted 79 times and had 49 receptions for 561 yards, averaging 11.4 yards per catch. Douglas might not be a true No. 1 wideout yet, but he definitely proved himself as a starter in 2023. The Liberty product could be set for a memorable second season if the Patriots get decent quarterback play in ’24.

Best-case scenario: Maye wins Offensive Rookie of the Year

Proving the doubters wrong with a final record of .500 or better would be a monumental achievement for Mayo in his first season. But for the Patriots to return to being a perennial winner, they’re going to need Maye to find his footing quickly and show flashes of being a legitimate franchise quarterback. He doesn’t have to play as well as C.J. Stroud did last season, but if he passes the eye test and routinely displays an elite skill set resembling Josh Allen or Justin Herbert, then that should be enough to bring back excitement for the Patriots’ fan base. But first, Maye will need to beat out Brissett for the starting job in training camp. 

Worst-case scenario: Patriots go back and forth with Maye, Brissett 

If the Patriots are rotating quarterbacks again, which they did with Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe the past few seasons, that would probably be an indicator that Maye wasn’t ready to start and the team is enduring another rough season. It will be up to Mayo on when to start Maye, a situation that could become difficult if he decides to go with Brissett in the season opener. In this scenario, Mayo would face public pressure and nonstop questions from the media on when he plans to start Maye, especially if the team has a rough start. Ideally, the Patriots would like Maye to make the decision easy, but if he’s not ready to play, maybe sitting him for a year—like Patrick Mahomes and Jordan Love—could be a better option than rotating quarterbacks.   

Head coach-quarterback tandem ranking

No. 32: Jerod Mayo (31) and Drake Maye (30)

The Patriots are starting anew with Mayo and Maye, hoping the duo finds even a modicum of success compared to Bill Belichick and Tom Brady’s 20-year run. For New England, 2024 will be great if Mayo and Maye look like keepers, regardless of the win-loss record. — Matt Verderame

Sleeper fantasy pick: Drake Maye

The third pick in the draft, Maye comes with high expectations after two consecutive strong seasons at North Carolina. While Jayden Daniels is the name that comes to mind when we think of a running quarterback among the rookies, Maye gained more than 1,100 yards and had 16 rushing scores in his past two collegiate seasons.  Most rookie quarterbacks who make an impact can do so with their legs, so Maye fits the bill. — Michael Fabiano

Best bet: Patriots under 4.5 wins (+135) at DraftKings

I like this plus-money option for the team with the second-hardest schedule 

in the NFL. Defensive holes, a mediocre offensive line, questions at quarterback, a receiving corps featuring Kendrick Bourne, Hunter Henry, and rookie wideouts Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, and a new coach all point to value on the under. — Jen Piacenti

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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Thieves hit Idaho bar that declared June 'heterosexual awesomeness month,' owners say

by JACKSON WALKER | The National Desk

EAGLE, Idaho (TND) — An Idaho bar said it was the victim of theft and other backlash after announcing drink specials commemorating its heterosexual patrons during Pride Month.

Old State Saloon in Eagle, Idaho wrote via Facebook last week it would recognize June as “heterosexual awesomeness month.” The festivities would award free beer to “any heterosexual male dressed like a heterosexual male.”

June will be OSS’s inaugural Heterosexual Awesomeness Month!” the bar wrote. “Come join us all month to celebrate heterosexuals, for without them, none of us would be here!”

That post received over 2,600 reactions. Old State Saloon later followed up, noting the pronounced level of negative reactions the announcement received.

“It seems as though people who are against Heterosexual Awesomeness Month have a hard time commenting without using horrific words, expletives, using the name of the Lord in vain, etc,” the bar wrote. “Make an intelligent comment and stay. Cuss and you are banned. Thanks. We’ve banned about 25 already.”

In another post noting “we love our LGBTQ+ patrons,” Old State Saloon added more deals including 15% off everything for heterosexual couples, all day prices for heterosexual women and “hetero awesomeness t-shirts.” The saloon later announced a crowdfunding campaign to raise money to alleviate damages received following the announcement.

Since we announced Hetero Awesomeness Month we’ve had some significant backlash: theft of our property, vendors refusing to fulfill our orders for ingredients, wedding catering cancelation, libel, slander - even the owner being falsely accused of being a sex offender!” the owners wrote. “But, to the credit of the community that is rational and reasonable, we’ve also received so much support from like-minded people who want to celebrate ‘Heterosexual Awesomeness Month’ with us, and get the concept of it as being about freedom and being true to our personal values.”

The campaign raised over $2,000 as of Monday afternoon. Old State Saloon’s X profile is also currently holding a poll to determine if it will host a “heterosexual awesomeness parade.”

Follow Jackson Walker on X at @_jlwalker_ for the latest trending national news. Have a news tip? Send it to [email protected].

• Stories & Music In the Sky - Guest Author: Nicholas Aragon
• https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/balloonmuseum/events/stories-music-in-the-sky-june-5-2024-2
• 2024-06-05T11:00:00-06:00
• 2024-06-05T12:00:00-06:00
• Join us for Stories & Music in the Sky, a presentation of award-winning early childhood education programming featuring stories, music, movement, and art produced by the Albuquerque Balloon Museum. There are different themes held every week for children up to 6 years old.

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Join us for  Stories  and Music in the  Sky  at the Balloon Museum on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Each session will be followed by craft activities based on the weekly theme.

Every week, the Balloon Museum offers  Stories  in the  Sky  and Music in the  Sky  programs which are programs for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Stories  in the  Sky  and Music in the  Sky  is led by Storyteller and Music Educator, Maryse Lapierre, who brings  stories  to life as she shares  stories  and music from around the world in multiple languages while incorporating  books , songs, fingerplays, and movement.

Join local author, Nicholas Aragon, as he shares his newest book, “Rooger and Loki Learn Manners: Sit, Boy, Sit!”  

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What is Memorial Day? The true meaning of why we celebrate the federal holiday

For many Americans, Memorial Day is more than a long weekend and an unofficial start to the summer season. The real meaning of the holiday is meant to honor all U.S. soldiers who have died serving their country.

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day's history goes back to the Civil War. It was was declared a national holiday by Congress in 1971, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs.

Although Veterans Day in November also honors military service members, Memorial Day differs by honoring all military members who have died while serving in U.S. forces in any current or previous wars.

The late-May holiday has also evolved into an opportunity for Americans to head to the beach or lake , travel to see friends and family , or even catch a Memorial Day parade .

Here's what to know about the history and the reason behind why we observe Memorial Day.

Memorial Day weather: Severe storms could hamper your travel, outdoor plans for Memorial Day weekend

When is Memorial Day?

One of 11 federal holidays recognized in the U.S., Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday of May. This year, the holiday falls on Monday, May 27.

Why do we celebrate Memorial Day?  

The origins of the holiday can be traced back to local observances for soldiers with neglected gravesites during the Civil War.

The first observance of what would become Memorial Day, some historians think, took place in Charleston, South Carolina at the site of a horse racing track that Confederates had turned into a prison holding Union prisoners. Blacks in the city organized a burial of deceased Union prisoners and built a fence around the site, Yale historian David Blight wrote in  The New York Times  in 2011.

Then on May 1, 1865, they held an event there including a parade – Blacks who fought in the Civil War participated – spiritual readings and songs, and picnicking. A commemorative marker was erected there in 2010.

One of the first Decoration Days was held in Columbus, Mississippi, on April 25, 1866 by women who decorated graves of Confederate soldiers who perished in the battle at Shiloh with flowers. On May 5, 1868, three years after the end of the Civil War, the tradition of placing flowers on veterans’ graves was continued by the establishment of Decoration Day by an organization of Union veterans, the Grand Army of the Republic. 

General Ulysses S. Grant presided over the first large observance, a crowd of about 5,000 people, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on May 30, 1873.

This tradition continues to thrive in cemeteries of all sizes across the country. 

Until World War I, Civil War soldiers were solely honored on this holiday. Now, all Americans who’ve served are observed. 

At least 25 places in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. Some states that claim ownership of the origins include Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, according to Veterans Affairs.

Despite conflicting claims, the U.S. Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, New York, as the “birthplace” of Memorial Day on May 30, 1966, after Governor Nelson Rockefeller's declaration that same year. The New York community formally honored local veterans May 5, 1866 by closing businesses and lowering flags at half-staff. 

Why is Memorial Day in May? 

The day that we celebrate Memorial Day is believed to be influenced by Illinois U.S. Representative John A. Logan, who was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat in November 1858, and served as an officer during the Mexican War.

It is said that Logan, a staunch defender of the Union, believed Memorial Day should occur when flowers are in full bloom across the country, according to the  National Museum of the U.S. Army.

Congress passed an act making May 30 a holiday in the District of Columbia in 1888,  according to the U.S. Congressional Research Service.

In 2000, the National Moment of Remembrance Act – which created the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance and encourages all to pause at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence – was signed into law by Congress and the President.

What is the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?

Memorial Day and Veterans Day both honor the sacrifices made by U.S. veterans, but the holidays serve different purposes.

Veterans Day, originally called “Armistice Day,” is a younger holiday established in 1926 as a way to commemorate all those who had served in the U.S. armed forces during World War I.

Memorial Day honors all those who have died.

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Falcons QB Cousins remains on track in recovery from torn right Achilles as team approaches minicamp

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins throws a pass during an NFL football practice Monday, June 3, 2024, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins is shown during an NFL football pratice Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins throws a pass during an NFL football pratice Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks Kirk Cousins, center, and Michael Penix Jr., left, run drills during an NFL football mini training camp practice on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) jokes with a teammate during an NFL football pratice Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Flowery Branch, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins’ recovery from a torn Achilles tendon remains on track as the team approaches next week’s mandatory minicamp.

Coach Raheem Morris said Monday he can’t ask for Cousins to do more in the minicamp because “he’s done almost everything” in the organized team activities. Cousins was again on the field for Monday’s launch of the final week of OTAs.

Rookie Michael Penix Jr. continues to learn under Cousins, 35, who suffered the torn right Achilles tendon in the 2023 season with the Minnesota Vikings.

“He’s done just about everything that you can potentially do, and I just see him doing it more and more as we keep going,” said Morris of Cousins. “It’s been nice to see him just get healthy.”

Cousins said “the positive part for me has been getting the reps” through the offseason program. He said he initially was told he wouldn’t have practice reps in the OTAs.

“I was planning on basically getting my first practice rep in late July, and I’ve gotten basically every practice rep,” Cousins said.

Despite feeling he is ahead of his original rehabilitation schedule, he still won’t push his recovery to practice at full speed.

“I want it to be today but you’ve just got to let your body tell you when,” Cousins said. “I’ll be able to feel when the strength is there fully and you’re not feeling anything in your ankle and Achilles.”

Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million deal with $100 million guaranteed in March. The Falcons’ selection of Penix as the No. 8 overall pick in the NFL draft was a surprise after the major financial commitment to Cousins.

Even when continuing his recovery, Cousins’ role as the unquestioned starter has been clear in the offseason workouts. Starting left tackle Jake Matthews said Monday he hasn’t taken a snap with Penix at quarterback.

Morris acknowledged Cousins is officially listed as limited. When asked when he wants to see Cousins given full clearance, Morris asked “What’s the date of our first game?”

The Falcons open their regular season against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Atlanta on Sept. 8.

“When we line up against Pittsburgh and get ready to go play I want him to feel as close to 100% as possible,” Morris said.

Running back Bijan Robinson moved closer to full clearance for minicamp and training camp when he returned to practice on Monday from what he described as a “light sprain” to his left ankle.

“Being back out there with the guys and feeling really good, it was a great feeling,” Robinson said. “I didn’t hold back anything.”

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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How your twins’ fetal positions affect labor and delivery

Twin fetal presentation – also known as the position of your babies in the womb – dictates whether you'll have a vaginal or c-section birth. Toward the end of pregnancy, most twins will move in the head-down position (vertex), but there's a risk that the second twin will change position after the first twin is born. While there are options to change the second twin's position, this can increase the risk of c-section and other health issues. Learn about the six possible twin fetal presentations: vertex-vertex, vertex-breech, breech-breech, vertex-transverse, breech-transverse, and transverse-transverse – and how they'll impact your delivery and risks for complications.

What is fetal presentation and what does it mean for your twins?

As your due date approaches, you might be wondering how your twins are currently positioned in the womb, also known as the fetal presentation, and what that means for your delivery. Throughout your pregnancy, your twin babies will move in the uterus, but sometime during the third trimester – usually between 32 and 36 weeks – their fetal presentation changes as they prepare to go down the birth canal.

The good news is that at most twin births, both babies are head-down (vertex), which means you can have a vaginal delivery. In fact, nearly 40 percent of twins are delivered vaginally.

But if one baby has feet or bottom first (breech) or is sideways (transverse), your doctor might deliver the lower twin vaginally and then try to rotate the other twin so that they face head-down (also called external cephalic version or internal podalic version) and can be delivered vaginally. But if that doesn't work, there's still a chance that your doctor will be able to deliver the second twin feet first vaginally via breech extraction (delivering the breech baby feet or butt first through the vagina).

That said, a breech extraction depends on a variety of factors – including how experienced your doctor is in the procedure and how much the second twin weighs. Studies show that the higher rate of vaginal births among nonvertex second twins is associated with labor induction and more experienced doctors, suggesting that proper delivery planning may increase your chances of a vaginal birth .

That said, you shouldn't totally rule out a Cesarean delivery with twins . If the first twin is breech or neither of the twins are head-down, then you'll most likely have a Cesarean delivery.

Research also shows that twin babies who are born at less than 34 weeks and have moms with multiple children are associated with intrapartum presentation change (when the fetal presentation of the second twin changes from head-down to feet first after the delivery of the first twin) of the second twin. Women who have intrapartum presentation change are more likely to undergo a Cesarean delivery for their second twin.

Here's a breakdown of the different fetal presentations for twin births and how they will affect your delivery.

Head down, head down (vertex, vertex)

This fetal presentation is the most promising for a vaginal delivery because both twins are head-down. Twins can change positions, but if they're head-down at 28 weeks, they're likely to stay that way.

When delivering twins vaginally, there is a risk that the second twin will change position after the delivery of the first. Research shows that second twins change positions in 20 percent of planned vaginal deliveries. If this happens, your doctor may try to rotate the second twin so it faces head-down or consider a breech extraction. But if neither of these work or are an option, then a Cesarean delivery is likely.

In vertex-vertex pairs, the rate of Cesarean delivery for the second twin after a vaginal delivery of the first one is 16.9 percent.

Like all vaginal deliveries, there's also a chance you'll have an assisted birth, where forceps or a vacuum are needed to help deliver your twins.

Head down, bottom down (vertex, breech)

When the first twin's (the lower one) head is down, but the second twin isn't, your doctor may attempt a vaginal delivery by changing the baby's position or doing breech extraction, which isn't possible if the second twin weighs much more than the first twin.

The rates of emergency C-section deliveries for the second twin after a vaginal delivery of the first twin are higher in second twins who have a very low birth weight. Small babies may not tolerate labor as well.

Head down, sideways (vertex, transverse)

If one twin is lying sideways or diagonally (oblique), there's a chance the baby may shift position as your labor progresses, or your doctor may try to turn the baby head-down via external cephalic version or internal podalic version (changing position in the uterus), which means you may be able to deliver both vaginally.

Bottom down, bottom down (breech, breech)

When both twins are breech, a planned C-section is recommended because your doctor isn't able to turn the fetuses. Studies also show that there are fewer negative neonatal outcomes for planned C-sections than planned vaginal births in breech babies.

As with any C-section, the risks for a planned one with twins include infection, loss of blood, blood clots, injury to the bowel or bladder, a weak uterine wall, placenta abnormalities in future pregnancies and fetal injury.

Bottom down, sideways (breech, transverse)

When the twin lowest in your uterus is breech or transverse (which happens in 25 percent of cases), you'll need to have a c-section.

Sideways, sideways (transverse, transverse)

This fetal presentation is rare with less than 1 percent of cases. If both babies are lying horizontally, you'll almost definitely have a C-section.

Learn more:

• Twin fetal development month by month
• Your likelihood of having twins or more
• When and how to find out if you’re carrying twins or more

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

Cleveland Clinic. Fetal Positions for Birth: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9677-fetal-positions-for-birth Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Mayo Clinic. Fetal Presentation Before Birth: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-positions/sls-20076615?s=7 Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

NHS. Giving Birth to Twins or More: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29016498/ Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Science Direct. Breech Extraction: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/breech-extraction Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Obstetrics & Gynecology. Clinical Factors Associated With Presentation Change of the Second Twin After Vaginal Delivery of the First Twin https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29016498/ Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Fetal presentation and successful twin vaginal delivery: https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(04)00482-X/fulltext [Accessed July 2021]

The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine. Changes in fetal presentation in twin pregnancies https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14767050400028592 Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Reviews in Obstetrics & Gynecology. An Evidence-Based Approach to Determining Route of Delivery for Twin Gestations https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252881/ Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Nature. Neonatal mortality and morbidity in vertex–vertex second twins according to mode of delivery and birth weight: https://www.nature.com/articles/7211408 Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Cochrane. Planned cesarean for a twin pregnancy: https://www.cochrane.org/CD006553/PREG_planned-caesarean-section-twin-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Kids Health. What Is the Apgar Score?: https://www.kidshealth.org/Nemours/en/parents/apgar0.html Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Neonatal mortality in second twin according to cause of death, gestational age, and mode of delivery https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15467540/ Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Lancet. Planned cesarean section versus planned vaginal birth for breech presentation at term: a randomised multicentre trial. Term Breech Trial Collaborative Group https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11052579/ Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

Cleveland Clinic. Cesarean Birth (C-Section): https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/7246-cesarean-birth-c-section Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

St. Jude Medical Staff. Delivery of Twin Gestation: http://www.sjmedstaff.org/documents/Delivery-of-twins.pdf Opens a new window [Accessed July 2021]

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Hunter Biden trial

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Mexico election

Claudia Sheinbaum projected to be Mexico's first woman president

By Kathleen Magramo, Maureen Chowdhury, Matt Meyer, Antoinette Radford and Melissa Macaya, CNN

Mexico's outgoing president says he will not try to influence Sheinbaum in naming future officials

From CNN's Abel Alvarado in Atlanta

Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said he will not influence newly elected president Claudia Sheinbaum in naming future officials for the country after Sunday’s landslide victory.

 “She (Sheinbaum) is the one empowered to make all the decisions. I am not going to influence anything,” López Obrador said during his morning presser on Monday.

“She is going to choose her team,” he added.

However, he suggested that changes would come with the new president because it was part of the “transformation” he started for the country when he took office nearly six years ago.

López Obrador also said he may discuss constitutional reforms with Sheinbaum during the transition period but made it clear that he didn’t “want to impose anything.”

Sheinbaum will take office on October 1. Her term will last six years.

López Obrador, who is Sheinbaum’s political mentor, congratulated her on the win.

“We already spoke yesterday (Sunday); I congratulated her. I am very happy because imagine what it means to hand over the presidency to a woman after 200 years of only men ruling Mexico,” the president said.

The president said that once he hands over the presidential band, he plans to retire from political life entirely and will do so with “a lot of satisfaction.”

“Let it be heard loud and clear: after I finish my term in office, I will retire, and I will never again participate in any public or political act,” he said. 

Biden congratulates Sheinbaum for her historic win

US President Joe Biden congratulated Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic presidential win as Mexico's first woman to lead the country's government.

"I look forward to working closely with President-elect Sheinbaum in the spirit of partnership and friendship that reflects the enduring bonds between our two countries," he said in a statement Monday. "I expressed our commitment to advancing the values and interests of both our nations to the benefit of our peoples."

Read Biden's full statement:

"I congratulate Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic election as the first woman President of Mexico. I look forward to working closely with President-elect Sheinbaum in the spirit of partnership and friendship that reflects the enduring bonds between our two countries. I expressed our commitment to advancing the values and interests of both our nations to the benefit of our peoples. I also congratulate the Mexican people for conducting a nationwide successful democratic electoral process involving races for more than 20,000 positions at the local, state, and federal levels."

Mexican peso falls against the US dollar

From CNN's Krystal Hur

The Mexican peso slipped roughly 3% against the US dollar Monday morning.

It comes after Claudia Sheinbaum's projected landslide victory, which has raised concerns that the ruling Morena party will be able to pass more ambitious constitutional reforms, many of which had been sought by outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

"Sheinbaum is perceived as more of a technocrat than AMLO, and she also has a background in climate science. Both offer potential shifts in Mexican policy," wrote Bespoke Investment Group researchers in a Monday note.

Latin American leaders celebrate Claudia Sheinbaum's projected win

From CNN's Abel Alvarado

Latin American leaders are celebrating Claudia Sheinbaum's projected win as Mexico's president with leaders referencing a common theme — that her appointment would hopefully see strengthened relationships between countries on the continent.

Sheinbaum will face several challenges, including security, organized crime, energy and immigration, and would also set the tone for  the pivotal US-Mexico bilateral relationship . 

• Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel  said in a post on X: "We wish her success in her management, the first for a woman in that position."
• Honduran President Xiomara Castro extended her "sincere congratulations" to Sheinbaum, "as the first female president of Honduras" on X . Castro said she spoke to Sheinbaum following her victory and agreed "to work together for the unity of Latin America and the Caribbean."
• Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called her win a "great victory for the Great Homeland. I hug you! Long live Mexico!"
• Bolivian President Luis Arce congratulated her on X and added that they "salute salute all the Mexican people for their democratic vocation and broad participation in the electoral process."
• Colombian President Gustavo Petro described Sheinbaum's appointment as "a triumph for the Mexican people and for their democracy."
• Costa Rica 's presidency referred to the two countries as "brother countries" and congratulated Sheinbaum on her appointment.

Millions turn out for largest election in Mexico's history

From CNN's Tara John and CNN en Español

Sunday’s poll was the largest election in the country’s history. More than 98 million voters were registered to cast a ballot, and 1.4 million Mexicans were eligible to vote abroad.

In addition to the presidency, more than 20,000 positions were being contested by an estimated 70,000 candidates vying to become senators, mayors and governors.

But the elections were plagued by  immense violence . There have been more than 20 political killings since September, according to the Mexican government. By some estimates though, that number is even higher. According to Mexican consultancy firm Integralia, at least 34 candidates were murdered in the run-up to the vote.

Voting was suspended for several hours on Sunday in the southeastern Mexican town of Coyomeapan due to violence at the polling centers, according to state electoral authorities.

And while the murder rate fell in Mexico  between 2019 and 2022 , in absolute numbers the country is still reeling from historically high levels of around 30,000 homicides each year. The true number is likely higher, experts say.

The violence appeared to have been a top concern for voters as cartels extend their grip through Mexico.

Claudia Sheinbaum has been coy about her security proposals but has pointed to her record as Mexico City mayor, when, according to her team, she improved the police force’s working conditions and intelligence-gathering abilities.

The count: Mexico Elections 2024

Outgoing mexican president congratulates sheinbaum.

From CNN's Mia Alberti

Mexico's President Andres Manuel López Obrador has congratulated Claudia Sheinbaum on her expected win in Sunday's presidential election. 

"With all my affection and respect I congratulate Claudia Sheinbaum who came out victorious with an ample margin. She will be the first (female) President of Mexico... but also the President, possibly, with most votes obtained in all of the history of our country," he said in a video posted on X. 

López Obrador also congratulated the other presidential candidates and the Mexican people, saying he was proud of the large turnout.

Mexico's expected president Sheinbaum pledges to govern all Mexicans "without distinction"

From CNN's Michael Rios

Claudia Sheinbaum has responded to the announcement of her projected victory in Mexico's presidential election early Monday morning, saying her administration would govern all Mexicans “without distinction,” even though not everyone supports her policies.

“Our duty is and will always be to look after every single Mexican without distinction. So even though many Mexicans do not fully agree with our project, we will have to walk in peace and harmony to continue building a fair and more prosperous Mexico,” she told supporters in a speech.

She also spoke about the historical significance of becoming the first female president of the country.

Sheinbaum said her two rivals in the race, Xóchitl Gálvez and Jorge Álvarez Máynez, had called to congratulate her on her projected victory.

Sheinbaum, the candidate from the ruling party, received the most votes in Sunday's elections, according to preliminary results from the National Electoral Institute.

The Electoral Court must validate the presidential election, and if confirmed, Sheinbaum will start her presidency on October 1.

Sheinbaum's large margin shows power of Mexico's ruling party, CNN journalist says

From CNN's Kathleen Magramo

Even though Claudia Sheinbaum was expected to win during campaign polls, her large margin in the votes came as a shock, CNN’s Gustavo Valdes reports from Mexico City.

Sheinbaum might get up to 60% of the vote, which is even higher than outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador when he was elected six years ago, Valdes said.

Sheinbaum is the candidate for the ruling Morena party.

"That gives you an idea of the political power that López Obrador has amassed over the past six years," Valdes told CNN's Rosemary Church.

Valdes said voters told CNN that a woman president would help change Mexico's image of being a "macho" country, where patriarchal culture impedes women's advancements.

"Mexico has actually changed its laws to encourage and actually force the parties to have more female candidates. So so there's a very equal division of power between many woman in congress and the governorships," Valdes said.

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