Labour and birth positions
Changing positions in labour and birth can provide comfort to the labouring woman and help to create space for baby.
Upright, walking, swaying: Being upright and mobile helps by using gravity and movement to allow baby to descend into the pelvis and place pressure on the cervix.
Toilet sit: Your body can relax and 'let go' on the toilet, the supported squat position also helps to open the pelvis for baby
Shower: Warm water is a great comfort measure in labour, and the shower is often a calm and private environment (essential in labour). In the shower you may be upright, on the birth ball, or using a mat on the floor.
Side lying: Side lying is useful when your body needs a rest. Sometimes labour is a marathon, not a sprint, so rest is essential to sustain you. A peanut ball or stacked pillows can help to open up the pelvis when side lying
Bath: Warm water immersion can provide great relief from the intensity of contractions, which can help you fully relax and open. The bath also allows for easy position changes to help open the pelvis for baby.
Kneeling: If you have an epidural and have retained enough mobility in your legs, kneeling may help with baby's position and descent. Kneeling can be a good way to rest your legs in labour while still allowing gravity to help baby descend. Women often move into this position instinctively when receiving ('catching') their own babies.
Supported squat: A supported deep squat can be very helpful for baby's descent in the second stage (the birthing part of labour). You can also use a birth stool or sling to support yourself in this position.
Jiggle, jiggle: Using a scarf or sarong (or your hands) to jiggle the buttocks and thighs can be helpful in relaxing the pelvic floor and releasing tension in tired muscles.
Birth sling/rope: Pulling a sling/rope towards yourself during birth can help direct your energy downwards, and support you in a deep squat position. You could also utilise this concept ('tug of war') if you have an epidural and are struggling to feel where you need to push.
