External cephalic version (ECV) is a medical procedure used to turn a fetus from a breech position to a head-down position before delivery. This is typically performed around the 36 to 37 weeks of pregnancy. The healthcare provider applies gentle pressure on the mother's abdomen to encourage the fetus to rotate. ECV is usually done in a hospital setting, where the mother can be monitored for any complications. While the procedure is generally safe, it may not be suitable for all pregnancies, and risks such as placental abruption or umbilical cord compression can occur.