07/15/2022
There are a multitude of ways to manage pain during labor and delivery. Switching up your laboring positions during the laboring process can help with pain management as well as shortening the time a birthing person spends laboring in some cases. Just as with other pain management methods, different laboring positions work better during different stages of labor.
Supine, the classic laboring position showcased in movies, is essentially labor laying down on one's back, typically modified with knees bent, called Lithotomy. This position is common, as it provides the most visibility for the medical staff; however, this position can directly counter the efforts of uterine contractions and, in some cases, actually lengthen labor times. This position orients the va**na in a “J” shape, which means that the contractions are not only working against the cervix, but gravity as well. This makes the supine position one of the least effective positions for progressing labor, but there are plenty of alternative positions for a birthing person to utilize!
•The Standing/Walking position can be tricky to do depending on fetal monitoring protocols, which differ from hospital to hospital. However, this position can be very effective during early labor for progressing to active labor.
•The Rocking position can be effective during early and active labor. The gravity combined with the pelvic movement helps to position the baby's head and provide light pressure against the cervix, which can help with dilation.
•The Squatting position can be effective during any stage of labor, but is especially effective during transition and birth as it opens the hips and positions the va**na toward the floor, allowing the birthing person to push with the complete aid of gravity.
•The Sitting position, similar to the Rocking position, works with gravity and can be modified to light bouncing when done using a birthing ball.
•The Leaning Over or Kneeling position is another variation of the Sitting position that can be especially helpful for alleviating painful back labor as it helps shift the pressure of the baby's head off of the spine.
•The Hands and Knees position involves getting on all fours which allows the birthing person freedom to position the hips however is comfortable and also opens up access to the birthing person's back, so the partner or Doula can provide massage techniques to manage pain as well.
•The Side Lying position is a good position for birthing people who cannot leave the bed, whether due to pain, fetal monitoring, epidural, or hospital protocol. This position can ease pressure on nerves and major veins in the back and also allows access to the back for massages.
These are some of the most effective labor and birth positions, but there are several more lesser known positions that can be effective as well. Knowledge is power and an empowered birthing experience leads to an empowered parenthood journey! As a Doula, I want to help empower as many families as I can, which is why I’m continuing to grow my knowledge surrounding any and all aspects of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Please reach out with any questions, further knowledge, or if you’re interested in setting up a consultation for Doula services. I’m currently offering free services in the Lyon county area as I work toward gaining experience for my DONA certification. Like and Share so others can empower their birth experience! Thank you for your support!
