Smart Labor Positions for a More Efficient Birth

Whoever said, “knees apart makes more space in the pelvis” is WRONG 🙅🏽...

…Well, partially wrong. 👇🏼

There are 3 LEVELS TO THE PELVIS. So different movements or positions can create (or restrict) space AT THOSE 3 LEVELS. 🎯

1⃣ To make more space at the PELVIC INLET 🔝 (when baby is higher up in the pelvis)..try front-to-back rocking, cat/cow (think: pelvic tucking for the cat pose), standing leg adduction (one leg swinging across the front of your body), deep squat with knees wider apart, femurs externally rotated, hip extension (swinging your leg directly behind you).

2⃣ To make more space in the MID-PELVIS..try asymmetrical movements (curb walking, side-to-side movement like slow dancing with a partner, a gentle side lunge, or by putting one leg on a chair). You can also lay on your side with peanut ball between your hips and shift sides every 30 min..which can be done with epidural!

3⃣ To make more space in the PELVIC OUTLET (when baby is at the bottom of the pelvis and you’re almost ready to push), have knees in and calves out (this can be done standing, in the throne position in bed, or laying on your side using a peanut ball). You could also do a standing leg abduction (with leg straight, lifting your leg out to the side), femurs înternally rotated.

Practice these in pregnancy, teach these to your a friend/partner who can support you in labor, and use a doula you can remind you to use these!

Happy birthing! Want to talk more about preparing for birth with a certified birth doula?

For more help navigating the seismic shift into parenthood, reach out to the Boston Area Doulas team.
www.bostonareadoulas.com