5 MOST Beneficial Positions for Labor
Labor it is DYNAMIC!!
That means that you don’t want to stay static. If you are not on an epidural yet or trying to avoid it all together, you want to move.
Believe it or not, movement, hip swaying & changing positions, (what got that baby in there) will help the baby get out!
Here are the top 5 most beneficial positions to optimize your experience.
Getting and staying comfortable in labor has everything to do with positioning, moving and staying positive!
Standing / Walking | Benefits |
Uses gravity to encourage baby to move down.
Takes pressure off hips and back.
Helps baby move and turn on their decent down.
Can help your baby get into an optimal birthing position.
Can provide distraction.
Staying active and upright can possibly help shorten labor.
Pain relief.
Change of space and environment can with mindset and mood.
Squatting | Benefits
Helps open pelvis 10-20%.
Can support rotation of baby.
Encourage decent of baby.
Takes pressure off your back.
Stretches perineum.
Allows you to lean over and rest your head.
Pain relief.
Partner/doula can massage back.
Swaying / Baby Dance | Benefits
Uses gravity to encourage decent of baby.
Moving hips helps baby rotate.
Swaying your hips can decrease intensity of labor.
Pain relief.
Distraction.
Partner/doula support can support you which will help keep you calm.
Listening and dancing to music can change your mindset, keep you focused and staying positive.
Leaning Over / Hands & Knees | Benefits
Help take pressure off back.
Can increase comfort levels.
Pain Relief.
Can help baby rotate into a good position.
Gives partner/doula room to rub/massage and support tension in back.
Pain relief.
Possibly get some rest.
Sitting on the Toilet | Benefits
Allows the release of all pelvic floor muscles.
Relaxation.
Good position for baby to rotate.
Comfortable space to be.
Can relax if you are experiencing leaking and discharge.
Check out our Connected Childbirth for more useful tips are how make the best out of this moment.
