Positions During Labor

It used to be that all babies were delivered with mom flat on her back, feet in stirrups. This was thought to help childbirth. Actually, when you labor on your back, your uterus places pressure on your inferior vena cava, and important blood vessel, and can cause decreased blood flow to the placenta.

Many women now find that movement, and varying positions help not only with the progression of labor, but with the discomfort as well. There is no best position that works for every woman. Listen to your body, and you'll be able to find what works best for your labor. Here are some different positions to try.

Standing or Walking - Walking is usually most comfortable in the early stages of labor. You can lean against your partner for support during contractions.

Squatting - Squatting helps to open up your pelvis, giving baby more room to move into the birth canal. Again, use your partner for support.

Side lying - If you have to be in bed for monitoring, you may find that lying on your side is a comfortable postion. This will allow your partner to apply pressure to your back for back labor, or to gently massage to help you relax. Many women find that placing a pillow between their knees helps increase your comfort level.

Kneeling over a chair - Place a pillow on the floor to kneel on, and one on the chair, stool, or other study surface to rest your head and shoulders on. This position is great for back labor, as it allows the baby to *fall* forward, relieving some of the pressure on your back.

Birthing Balls - Birthing balls are large excercise balls. Most hold up to 300 pounds. The are helpful for sitting or leaning onto during labor. When you sit on one, it helps to open up your pelvis, it's easier than squatting for long periods.

Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor.