Time to push: Finding Birthing Positions That Work Best for You
Birth is a very intimate time, and even more so when pushing. As seen on TV the common way is laying on your back, legs in the air on stirrups with your vagina on display for everyone to see. The doctors need a clear view to see the baby coming.
Now go watch some home birth videos and come back to me. Baby can be brought into the world in quite a few different positions and you don’t need to do it the same way as you saw on TV.
Plus if you learn the history, we’re being taught that it was because King Louis had a fetish for watching women give birth.
So what are the six positions to push a baby out? Well to quote one of my friends Aja Vu – it’s probably one of the ways you got a baby in!
Position 1: Side Lying
In this position it can better allow you to rest between contractions, a partial squat that allows the pelvis to widen, and is excellent for pushing in.
Position 2: Supported Wide-Forward Squat
You may find this is optimal for you to deliver your baby because it opens the pelvis in this squatting position, and can be done with a partner or by using a chair. It also allows your belly to rest and settle between your knees.
Position 3: Hands and Knees
Hands and Knees is slowly becoming more common to give birth, giving you the chance to open the pelvis all while To give your arms a break, lower your shoulders to the bed or floor mat and place your head on a pillow.
Position 4: Standing
Opening your legs wide, and pulling on something from the ceiling or holding onto something is another option for pushing the baby out. I remember an old bible movie I watched and they stood while holding on a rope to push, allowing gravity to take control.
Position 5: Supported Semi Sitting
Let your partner be more available by sitting behind you, and grab a hold of those legs, all while widening your pelvis. This position also allows gravity to come into play when the baby comes into the world.
Position 6: Using a Birth Stool/ Cub/ Squat
Any of these options allow you to rest while putting your full force into pushing, and can give you something for guidance while holding on to something.
Out of all these options, which one are you the most willing to try, or have tried with a previous birth? Never heard of any of this and you’re due soon? Time to get yourself a doula… I offer virtual and in-person services.