Labor Positions
1- The hands and knees position : The all fours position calls for you to get down onto your hands and knees, either in bed or on a floor mat. “The hands and knees position is a great one, since it helps open the pelvis,”
Pros:
-Takes pressure off the spine, easing back pain.
-May help boost baby’s oxygen level
Cons:
-Your arms may get tired.
2-The side-lying position: Lying on your side is one of the best labor positions to try when you need a rest. That said, just because you’re lying down doesn’t mean your body is taking a break from labor; on the contrary, it can actually help baby move into the ready position. “Side-lying and using a peanut-shaped birthing ball between the legs are wonderful tools for getting baby to descend and rotate,” Pros:
-Helps get oxygen to baby
-Can be used if you have high blood pressure.
-Makes it easier to relax during contractions
Cons: -May be difficult to assess fetal heartbeat.
3-Birthing bar positions: Call it the birthing stool’s cousin: The birthing bar is an attachment that can be added to many labor beds to help support birthing positions. With a birthing bar, you can sit up at any time and squat, leaning on the bar for support. “The birthing bar can be an awesome tool. You can wrap a towel on it to make it easier to use and switch positions,”Pros:
-Expands the pelvis
-Uses gravity to push baby down
Cons:
-May not be available at all hospitals
4-Kneeling birth positions: If baby is facing Mom’s abdomen instead of her back, kneeling can help them turn to get into the proper position. Kneeling is one of the most popular birthing positions because it also gives mom a much-needed break.
Pros:
-Relieves pain of contractions
-Eases back pressure
Cons:
-May be difficult for continuous fetal monitoring.
Always is good to discuss any positions with you OBGYN or Midwife which is good for you.
