04/03/2023
The Abdominal Lift and Tuck is one of the most effective early labor techniques for engaging the baby in the pelvis. This technique is to help the baby into the pelvis and through the pelvic brim (the baby may be -3 or -2 station).
The Abdominal Lift was introduced by Janie McCoy King, a Texas Engineer who wrote Back Labor No More. I learned it from Penny Simkin at her Birth Doula Training. I added the words “and tuck” to remind the user to tuck their pelvis. By this, I mean do a standing Posterior Pelvic Tilt (flatten the lower back).
Note: The Abdominal Lift and Tuck must be done during a contraction. You will want to move into position as soon as—but not before—the contraction starts. If you start too late it will be uncomfortable, so just wait to start with the following contraction.
As a contraction begins, link your fingers and lift your belly about two inches.
Bring your belly in (towards your spine) by one or two inches, depending on your size. Try to be as comfortable as possible.
At the same time, flatten your lower back. Your knees should be bent. Bending the knees, even just a little, is necessary to do a Posterior Pelvic Tilt.
Hold your belly up through the entire contraction. It’s okay to sway or rock a little on your legs during the contraction, but hold your belly in one place to avoid being uncomfortable.
When the contraction ends, lean forward slightly and slowly let go of your abdomen. Move your legs to encourage circulation.
Repeat the Abdominal Lift for ten contractions in a row, resting in between and circling your wrists and ankles for circulation.
Want to learn more? Head to the link: https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/techniques/abdominal-lift-tuck/
