Positions in labour
You’ve probably assumed you're going to give birth to your baby on your back, but did you know that labouring and giving birth in an upright position can be more beneficial for you and your baby? Evidence shows that you can increase the space in your pelvis by 28-30%, you’re 23% less likely to need medical assistance, Baby is 54% less likely to become distressed, there is a 29% reduction in C-Section rates and a 21% reduction in episiotomy rates. You may also be less likely to want an epidural and your labour may be shorter.
So with that in mind, here are some positions you might like to try:
All Fours
Being on all fours during labour, as with all upright positions, takes pressure off your sacrum (tail bone) and allows the pelvis to open more freely. This can help reduce back ache. Swaying or rotating your hips while in this position can help rotate baby on its descent through the birth canal and ease discomfort for the birthing person.
Squatting
Squatting while pushing can reduce the risk of tearing as gravity helps baby descend through the birth canal, it can also aid dilation and relieve back pain. Squatting can be done on your own on the floor, on the toilet or with the aid of a bed bar to take some of your weight. Sitting on the toilet is a great way to squat as it also allows you to rest, while allowing your pelvic muscles to relax.
Support with a Birth Partner
Your birth partner can assist you in moving from one position to the next or take some of your weight while you use a standing squat, rebozo, lunge position. A Birth partner can also apply pressure to your lower back, give massage, or light touch. All of which can help alleviate discomfort for the birthing person.
Immersion in water
Immersion in water, either in a pool or bath has been shown to reduce the need for pain relief medication and epidural, and to reduce anxiety in the birthing person. It also aids in a smoother transition from one position to another.
Forward Leaning
Forward leaning is especially helpful for back pain and pressure during labour as it helps take the weight of the baby and uterus off the back. It helps baby move into a better position. Forward leaning can take many forms, over a bed, supported by a partner and in a birth pool to name a few.
Sidelying
Many parents find a side lying position restful and helpful to use in between contractions in early labour. It allows the possibility of sleep between contractions. It can also be used as a delivery position and is a helpful position if an epidural has been administered. It encourages baby into a LOA position which is a helpful presentation for straightforward delivery.
Standing
Standing can be used in combination with walking, dancing, swaying and lunging to encourage baby’s head to put even pressure on the cervix during labour and encourage dilation. It can be used as a form of pain relief to sway and move through contractions. Gravity also helps to keep labour progressing and move more quickly to full dilation. Care should be taken to not exhaust the birthing person, energy will be needed for birthing the baby so rest in between standing could be encouraged.
April 2020
References:
https://www.the-cub-usa.com/cub-blogs
