Correct positions during childbirth. Contraindications to pain-relieving poses

Women who have given birth, like no one else, will agree with the statement that the process of bringing a baby into the world is complex and requires certain efforts, knowledge and even physical training. If during childbirth (and they, as we know, consist of three periods) a woman is uncomfortable, her body quickly gets tired and weakens. And this should not be allowed under any circumstances, because the better and more collected the mother works, the less traumatic the birth of a new person will be.

To be honest, many women intuitively take those positions that are most comfortable for both them and their children. Here nature had its say. But childbirth is not a case where you can go by trial and error. Therefore, it is much better to familiarize yourself with the positions that can be taken during childbirth, the advantages of some over others, and choose the best option for yourself.

Postures during contractions

If your birth is not labeled “complicated,” during labor, doctors will allow you to behave in the way that is most convenient for you. Take any comfortable position, walk around the ward, hang from high handrails or stairs (such attributes are not uncommon in modern maternity hospitals), use a fitness ball. Moreover, if conditions permit and the waters have not yet flowed out, immerse yourself in a bathtub filled with warm water. Some people find it easier to worry while standing in the shower. During a contraction, pain is reduced by a position in which a woman stands with support on a wall, table, back of a chair or bed. When taking this pose, it is very important to transfer the weight of your torso to your arms. If a woman in labor has back pain, the “cat pose” will be effective, when the woman gets on all fours or hangs on her husband’s neck so that her stomach sag. You can also rock your pelvis and hips, creating movements that relax the perineal muscles and help open the cervix.

Trained women can take the lotus position. But it cannot be used during active labor activity. If the baby's head has already dropped and is pressing on the tissue pelvic floor, but the cervix has not yet fully dilated, the so-called “baby pose” will be effective. In this case, the woman will have to kneel down and spread them as wide as possible, and put a large pillow under her chest.

Postures during childbirth

supine position

Previously, our women all gave birth lying on their backs. But now many maternity hospitals and clinics have reconsidered their views on this approach, because it has already been proven that this position is the most convenient for doctors and uncomfortable for a woman and her child. By the way, the position on the back during childbirth is not in the traditions of any country. This is explained, first of all, by the fact that while a woman is lying, compression of the vena cava occurs and leads to disruption of the blood supply in the vital area. important organs and in the placenta, can cause dizziness and a feeling of lightheadedness. In addition, in this position the uterus contracts ineffectively, and its cervix opens slowly. Moreover, this position complicates the correct insertion and rotation of the baby’s head and increases the woman’s pain.

The supine position is justified only in some cases. For example, when the pregnancy is premature, the baby shows signs intrauterine retention when labor is rapid or rapid labor, as well as when breech. In addition, this position will have to be accepted by the woman who will be performed. In this case, it is necessary that the anesthetic spreads symmetrically over the membrane of the spinal cord.

side lying position

This position is often recommended at the end of the first stage of labor. It is very convenient when the cervix has opened almost completely, and birth process must be monitored every second. This is extremely important when the fetus is small or premature. To correctly take this pose, you need to lie on your side and bend your knees. The legs are in the position of a running person. It is convenient to place a pillow under your foot. Some women hold a pillow between their legs. During the birth of the baby, the woman remains lying on her side, and one leg (the one on top) is raised, but also remains bent at the knee. For convenience, you can hold your leg with your hand.

giving birth in the “high squatting” position

For this pose, you need to squat down, hugging your knees and spreading your legs. Your torso should be tilted forward and your head down, as if you were spying on what is happening. During the last attempts, you need to be careful so that the baby is not born too quickly. Therefore, when the head erupts, you need to straighten your knees. The midwife must support the baby. The woman in labor must lean against someone (for example, her husband) or something with her hands to maintain balance. In this position, the woman does not need to push. The child comes out on his own.

give birth standing

This method is very similar to the one described above. At the time of birth, a woman should bend her knees, spread her legs and tilt her torso forward. There should be someone behind her who will help the woman in labor not to lose her balance and fall. Until the baby's head appears, you can make rotational movements with your hips. This allows the baby's head to move downwards better. By the way, in this position, uterine contractions are much more effective, and pushing is more intense, because the force of gravity acts here. It is important that in this position the woman herself controls the pelvic floor muscles. The perineum relaxes better and is significantly reduced.

giving birth on all fours

There is no need for an assistant in this pose. The woman controls the process herself. Another advantage of this position is that the woman does not give birth quickly, and in some situations this is very important. For example, such a position can play a significant role when repeated births, When birth canal wide enough. If a woman, standing on all fours, slightly lowers her pelvis down and spreads her legs, leaning against the edge of the bed or table, then the baby’s head will more likely fall down. If, on the contrary, it is necessary to hold the child, the woman will be advised to raise her pelvis, lowering herself onto her elbows. As soon as the head has erupted, the obstetrician will ask the woman in labor to get into her original position - on all fours.

Whatever position you decide to give birth in, remember that you should always relax. It is especially contraindicated to squeeze when approaching and during a contraction. Listen to your obstetrician, tune in favorable outcome, and everything will work out for you!

Especially for- Elena Kichak

Active labor is more natural than lying on the couch, and the use of special positions during contractions can reduce painful sensations, bring closer or delay the birth of the baby, and also prevent perineal ruptures. Collected for you best poses facilitating childbirth.

Reduces tension and pain in the lumbar region.

This exercise is used at the beginning of labor, when the baby's head is high above the pelvis. Sit on the exercise ball with your legs spread, your feet should completely touch the floor. The body is slightly tilted forward, the palms of the hands are on the knees. Creating circular movements of the pelvis increases the likelihood of the head descending correctly into the birth canal. This exercise is also performed without a ball - sitting on your knees with your hands on your hips. The direction of rotation of the hips does not matter; the important thing is the pace that does not disturb calm breathing.

2. Sitting on your knees

Position for inducing labor.

It is useful when contractions of the uterus are already quite noticeable; the position accelerates the descent of the baby’s head into the mother’s pelvis. Sit on your heels, spread your knees wide. Place your hands on the floor with your body tilted forward. You can rock back and forth, this movement reduces the perception of pain, especially with with the right rhythm breathing.

3. Supported birth position

Strengthens uterine contractions.

Accelerates the opening of the cervix, and physical contact with a partner gives a feeling of security. The woman faces the assistant and clasps his neck. At the same time, the body leans slightly back with a slight deflection in the lower back. Legs are straight or slightly bent, arms are relaxed. If there is no partner nearby, the woman leans against the wall. During the position, you can perform movements reminiscent of a belly dance, and at this time an assistant massages the expectant mother’s lower back to reduce pain.

4. Near a support

The effect of the posture for childbirth is to relieve lower back pain and stimulate labor.

The position is performed near the bed as shown in the figure. Useful for severe pain in the lower back, pressure on the fundus of the uterus increases the contractile force pushing the baby down.

5. Lying on your side

Action – improves blood circulation, reduces the intensity of contractions.

The position improves blood flow from mother to baby faster than the right side position. Unlike vertical, it reduces the intensity of contractions, therefore it is recommended for rest between contractions before starting.

6. Horizontal position

Reduces the risk of perineal ruptures, reduces the pain of contractions.

Some positions during labor and childbirth reduce the risk of ruptures; this position is most effective and recommended as the meeting with the baby approaches. The force of contractions and the risk of rupture are reduced, and the opening of the cervix increases. Practices while pushing correct breathing similar to blowing out a candle.

7. Squatting position

Promotes smooth lowering of the head, speeds up the birth of the baby.

The most physiological and effective posture to lower the baby's head into the mother's pelvis. Squat down with your elbows on the edge of the bed or your partner. The buttocks in this position should not touch the floor.

8. Squatting with support

The action is similar to the previous one (7)

The position replaces the previous one if it is more convenient. Take the position as shown in the figure.

9. On your knees with support

Reduces the risk of perineal ruptures during childbirth.

The position is recommended at the moment of birth of the child, before the head comes out. It reduces the pressure of the head on the perineum, thereby preventing ruptures. The woman kneels wide apart and leans against the wall or holds on to her partner’s shoulders. You can take this position by sitting on the floor near the window with your hands on the windowsill. The buttocks do not touch the floor.

10. Reclining with support

The action is a replacement for standard childbirth in a horizontal position. Accelerates birth due to the force of gravity.

The position helps the birth of the baby, while the birth canal gradually expands. A woman lies down on a hospital bed with the backrest raised. Knees wide apart, hands holding the handrails. It is important that the support for the feet is below the level of the body, as shown in the figure.

Have an easy birth! 🙂

Birth pains- these are regular contractions with a periodicity of 10 minutes, then with a period of 5 minutes. and by the end of cervical dilatation from 2 minutes. and more often. During breaks, the woman should have time to take a breath, choose a position for a new contraction and a comfortable breathing rhythm. There cannot be one universal pose for every woman - everyone chooses for themselves. But the position of the woman in labor must fulfill three tasks:

• relieve pain so as not to deprive the expectant mother of strength and save energy for the further process;
• ensure that the position most convenient for inserting the head into the small pelvis is adopted;
• guarantee free access of oxygen to the baby.

Don’t be afraid of losing self-control due to the suddenness of a contraction or a change in the nature of its manifestation. During contractions, lying on your back is unsafe. The weight of the uterus compresses the inferior vena cava - the baby does not receive nutrition. There are a few exceptions:

• premature pregnancy;
• breech presentation;
• administration of epidural anesthesia;
• rapid birth.

The upright position is more natural for contractions. The pose can be dynamic or asymmetrical. The woman in labor can sway, walk, and transfer weight from one side of her body to the other. Such movements and postures help relieve pain and make it easier to configure pelvic bones under the child's head.

Now let's move on to specific poses, movements, and other ways to relieve pain during contractions.

Deflection in the lower back

We bend at the lower back, supporting ourselves with our hands on a table or other support. The woman in labor can rock her pelvis, helping the baby's head to position itself comfortably.

Hanging

In ancient times, women in labor hung on a ring of sheets attached to the beam of the room. In the maternity hospital you can hang on anything convenient. The birth partner can support the woman in labor under her arms. The expectant mother will get rid of tension in the lower back. Relaxation will be combined with relief from compression in the spine.

Walking

Walking should be used only if the woman in labor wishes, not through force. In the old days, women in labor were forced to walk with their knees high and step over thresholds or other obstacles. This kind of activity improves blood supply to the uterus and shortens the period of contractions by 2 hours.

Swaying on your feet

If you don’t have the strength to actively walk, you can stand upright and simply sway from foot to foot. Feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider. We transfer the weight from one leg to the other. If possible, you can bend over a little and do self-massage of the sacrum or ask your birth partner about it.

Cat pose

We repeat the cat pose, bending at the lower back with support on the elbows or chest on the pillow, resting the head on the hands. Cat pose relieves tension and pressure on sacral zone, provides active nutrition to kid.

Squatting position

This is an unstable position and is not suitable for everyone. Strictly contraindicated during rapid labor - the baby may get injured! If a birth partner is present, he can support the woman in labor under her arms. Then this pose will provide all the necessary comfort. It allows you to expand the birth canal, speed up the opening of the uterus and pushing.

Lotus position

Mothers who have attended pregnancy yoga and have good stretching will love this pose. The lotus pose will relax your back, relieve lower back pain and expand the birth canal.

Pose on a fitball

The fitball allows you to sit without experiencing discomfort. You can spread your legs and bend at the lower back. To relieve pain, we rock our pelvis.

Kneeling pose

You can sit on your knees and sway from side to side. If you sit on your spouse’s lap and bend in the lower back, it will be very comfortable without putting pressure on the perineum. The pain will be relieved by rocking the pelvis.

Side pose

Mom lies down with one leg bent at the knee and the other straightened. We put a pillow between our legs. In this position, the woman in labor can bend in the lower back and move her pelvis. Pain will decrease, and it will be easier for the baby’s head to position itself correctly.

Visualization

During the start of the fight, we imagine the image of an oncoming wave. Try to stay “on the wave” without letting it overwhelm you. This will reduce fear.

Attempts and comfortable poses

During pushing, you are not always allowed to take a position other than lying on your back, which is not particularly physiological. But you can still ask for other provisions. For example:

• horizontal pose: emphasis on the feet and hands; when the attempts are approaching, the woman in labor rests her palms on the floor with special force, raising her head at the same time;
• ostrich pose: get on all fours, lower your head below your pelvis; this position is better suited for early attempts with a combination of contractions to open the cervix and expulsive contractions with pushing the baby out; the ostrich position does not allow the baby’s head to put excessive pressure on the not fully dilated cervix;
• cat pose: stand on bent knees, rest your palms on the floor, without bending your elbows, placing your pelvis below your head and without arching your back; you can tense your muscles during pushing and rest between them in the same position.

It is much easier to learn all these poses and positions if future mom attends courses for pregnant women. And if you master them on your own, be sure to remember in detail all the nuances of the pose. During contractions, use only those that alleviate your condition.

For quite a long time, there was an opinion among obstetricians and gynecologists that during childbirth a woman should be in a supine position. However, this position is far from the most successful for a woman in labor.

Typically, while studying possible poses During childbirth, it turned out that among various peoples, no one has the usual position on the back for us. This position, although very convenient for obstetricians and doctors, is completely unsuitable for the woman in labor and the baby.

Disadvantages of the position “on the back” for a woman in labor

Pose in horizontal position inhibits the process of normal delivery, which interferes with effective contractions of the uterine muscles, full dilation of the cervix, correct rotation of the baby’s head and its insertion, and can increase pain in a woman during childbirth. In addition, in the position of the woman in labor on her back, the uterus compresses large blood vessels, which leads to compression of the inferior vena cava and disruption of the blood supply in vital organs, including the placenta, development of dizziness and a feeling of “lightheadedness.”

Indications for childbirth in the “supine” position

the need for epidural anesthesia - even despite the absence of pain during epidural anesthesia, the woman does not lose the ability to move, and she is recommended to lie down due to possible muscle weakness And sharp fall blood pressure;

breech presentation of the baby in a woman - if the woman is in vertical position, a slight opening of the cervix and the unpreparedness of the birth canal for birth can lead to prolapse of the umbilical cord; most often, the occurrence of such a situation can lead to emergency delivery;

Availability premature birth and intrauterine growth restriction of the fetus - in this case, the optimal position of the woman is on her side;

rapid or rapid delivery - the vertical position can accelerate - “force” the process of childbirth and thereby have an impact Negative influence both for the child and for the mother.

As a rule, it is impossible to give one universal advice for choosing a position for contractions, since each woman, equally as each birth, is unique.

Most often, most women prefer one of the vertical positions: sitting or standing, perhaps even walking.

Vertical position

Selecting a vertical position creates big row benefits.

First: in a standing position as opposed to a supine position, compression large vessels does not occur, normal blood supply to the organs and placenta is maintained. By intuitively choosing the most comfortable position, the mother in labor thereby helps her baby. For example, with the help of some asymmetry of postures, achieved by slightly lifting the pelvis or moving one leg forward, the child’s head is correctly inserted, rotated normally and correct flow childbirth Also, in a vertical position, due to the force of gravity, the child can move freely along the birth canal and some expansion of the birth canal is observed.

Most a long period childbirth is the first period, characterized by regular, gradually becoming more frequent, as well as intensifying contractions, leading to dilatation uterine cervix. Carrying out active movements during childbirth at this time, the woman in labor can help the baby during this period by creating conditions for contractions to be as effective as possible. During the period between contractions, using the chosen position, the woman in labor can rest and relax.

Most women experience the onset of labor more easily by walking, since walking, combined with raising the legs high, improves blood supply, thereby increasing the delivery of oxygen to the baby and the uterus.

Standing pose

During the contraction itself, to reduce pain, you can take a standing position, leaning on the wall and table, the back of the bed or chair, since in this case all the weight is transferred to your hands. If your husband is present during the birth, you can hang by grabbing him by the neck, or leaning on his back or shoulders. Postures with the stomach tilting forward and “sagging”, on all fours, in the “cat pose”, hanging on the husband’s neck, a pose with bending forward, can help reduce the intensity of painful sensations in the back. In addition, during the contraction it is advisable to “sway” the pelvis and hips. Performing such movements can relax the muscles of the perineum to a more pronounced extent, as well as open the cervix to its fullest extent.

Sitting pose

When choosing a sitting position, you need to take into account the fact that the surface of the seat is softer, preferably elastic. For this purpose, it is better to use either large inflatable balls or children's swimming rings during childbirth. Using these devices, you can relax the muscles of the perineum to the maximum extent and open the cervix more widely. During contractions in a sitting position, you can also lean on a pillow, arms and headboard. The legs should not be closed during contractions, since in this position the dilation of the cervix is ​​incomplete. For greater efficiency, you can spread your knees as wide as possible to the sides.

Squatting pose

A squatting pose with the knees wide apart is also effective. By performing this position, you can promote the correct process of insertion of the head and easier passage of the baby through the birth canal. This is also facilitated by a certain angle taken when performing a pelvic tilt, achieved by squatting. It is most effective to use this position in cases where the cervix is ​​completely open and the baby’s head does not descend to the pelvic floor. The disadvantage of this position - the squatting position - is the woman’s instability in it. In this situation, the help of the husband, as well as another loved one- invaluable, you can also hold on to the back of the bed or chair when performing the squatting pose.

Lotus position

One of the most common yoga poses is the lotus pose, the adoption of which by a woman during childbirth is very effective. To stay in the lotus position for a long time, preliminary training is necessary during pregnancy. Only when given condition During childbirth, adopting the lotus position will not cause discomfort and tension, but will help relax the muscles of the perineum, as well as the correct “wedging” of the baby’s head into the birth canal. In addition, sitting in the “Turkish” position will help relieve back muscles and relieve pain in lumbar region and excessive stress. It is advisable to take these positions at the very beginning of labor, during short intervals between contractions, when they are not very painful and the cervix is ​​at the very beginning of opening. In the case of active labor and a large opening of the outlet - pharynx - cervix, it is advisable not to sit on a hard surface, as this creates an obstacle to the movement of the fetus along the birth canal.

Side lying position

The side lying position is the most gentle position for the fetus. Most often it is recommended to take it at the end of the first stage of labor when full opening cervix. At the same time, it is impossible to force the course of labor, especially in situations where the fetus is premature or small, and there is intrauterine retention.

In water

You can immerse yourself in a bath of water if the water has not yet broken out. Contractions are also easier to endure while standing in the shower.

Some African tribes, which retained maximum closeness to the laws of nature, preserved the tradition of giving birth to a woman in a squatting or kneeling position. For example, these traditions exist in Brazil or other countries Latin America. In the Netherlands or France and other European countries, water births or births in an upright position are “becoming fashionable” again.

Baby pose

If the baby’s head has completely dropped and there is pressure on the pelvic floor tissue, while the cervix has not yet fully dilated, then adopting the “baby pose”, which is an imitation of the position of the child in the womb, helps. You need to kneel down, while spreading them wide. For support, you need to put a large pillow under your chest, and you need to put your hands under your head; when taking this position, the pelvis should be higher than the pregnant woman’s head. This position helps to relieve pressure on the baby’s head and reduce the intensity of discomfort.

Asymmetrical pose

Sometimes, intuitively, a woman may choose to adopt an asymmetrical pose - a runner's pose. This position is characterized by the fact that you need to place a pillow under one of the legs bent at the knee or squeeze it between the legs. Adopting this position is the most gentle for the baby, and also helps the head wedge correctly into the birth canal.

In a number of maternity hospitals, a woman can now perform active movements during the first stage of labor. But when contractions become more frequent, at the end of the period of cervical dilatation, as well as at the beginning of pushing (the beginning of the second stage of labor), the woman in labor should lie on her back. A special device is first connected, which allows you to monitor the heart rate - the heart rate - of the fetus, or the doctor listens to the fetal heartbeat in the intervals between contractions, using an obstetric stethoscope (tube).

At the birth of the head, the midwife carries out special techniques that are aimed at preventing the occurrence of perineal ruptures, which are only possible in the woman’s position on her back. Also lying on her back, a woman in labor can bend her head and press her chin to her chest, while pulling the special handrails towards herself, resting her feet on special supports. Few maternity hospitals are equipped with special chairs for vertical birth. The fetal heartbeat is recorded by special telemetry devices, which relieve the woman in labor from having to remain on the bed. However, the use of these devices has not yet become widespread in our maternity hospitals.

As a rule, perform in uncomfortable position something is extremely difficult: tense and tired muscles can make themselves felt quite quickly. Since childbirth is a rather long and labor-intensive process, it is necessary to choose the position that is most suitable for you and your baby in advance, with prior consultation with a doctor.

The birth of a new life is like a miracle. However, childbirth is 15–20 hours of hard work. Help your body cope with the work by using birth positions and movements.

Birth positions are body positions in which a woman in labor feels most comfortable and comfortable. They are natural for a woman giving birth and help relieve pain from contractions, maintain strength and move the baby towards the exit of the pelvis.

The article talks about birth positions for resting and waiting out contractions and vertical birth positions suitable for contractions and pushing. Videos and drawings will help you understand how to move in each of the birth positions. Let's also talk about how to remember these movements in own birth, and how to use them in the maternity hospital.

Birth positions. Fragment of the video tutorial “Preparing for natural childbirth”

Birth positions are similar among women of different nationalities and cultures. No one can tell you in advance what position you will feel good in. Try each position during pregnancy, try it on yourself, breathe. And during childbirth, listen to your body, it will tell you.

“A woman, sheltered from danger and prying eyes, often prefers to give birth in positions characteristic of mammals, for example, on all fours.”

We recommend combining birth positions with diaphragmatic breathing. This is when when you inhale, your stomach expands, not your chest. According to osteopathic doctors, healthy people They've been breathing like this since birth. During childbirth, this type of breathing helps open the cervix, expands the birth canal and relieves pain.

Labor positions for experiencing contractions and resting between them

When. Contractions are the first stage of labor. It usually lasts from 5 to 18 hours. The woman’s task is to relax, breathe and conserve strength for the next stage - pushing. Poses that help reduce pain and relax between contractions are suitable for this.

Lying on your side

For what. For rest during childbirth.
Helps ensure proper insertion of the head into the birth canal and reduces the likelihood of injury to the baby.
How. Lie on your side with the baby's back facing. Place a cushion, pillow or hand under your head. Place one or more pillows between your legs. Even if you are not allowed to move freely in the maternity hospital, this position will help you survive the period of labor. During pregnancy, this position is convenient for relaxing, practicing diaphragmatic breathing and simply falling asleep. To train, lie on your comfortable side.

On knees

For what. Breathe out the fight.
Helps reduce back pain. Rocking in this position relaxes the muscles of the perineum and helps open the cervix.
How. Settle in convenient location: On a bed or on a rug on the floor. Rock back and forth - imagine yourself as one big ball. Use diaphragmatic breathing.

Pose option. Asymmetrical birth position. Helps keep baby's head occupied correct position. Get on all fours right leg put it forward, next to right hand. Rock back and forth, breathe. Change your leg. During childbirth, choose the option that is convenient for you.

On all fours with a raised pelvis

For what. To stop pushing.
Helps curb the urge to push if the cervix is ​​not yet fully dilated.
How. From a position on all fours, lower yourself onto your forearms and rest your head on your hands. Take a double breath and long exhale open mouth(ugh_ugh_fu_u_u_u_u). Or breathe like a dog.

Sitting or kneeling, leaning on supports of varying heights

For what. Breathe out the fight.
You can rest between contractions if lying down is uncomfortable and you are tired of standing and walking. In this position, it is convenient for an assistant to give you a relaxing back massage.
How. Sit on your knees, toes together, heels apart, back straight. Practice in advance; if you are not used to it, your legs will quickly become numb. Remember about diaphragmatic breathing.

Variants of this pose:
sitting on your knees, lie forward on a low support,
sitting on your knees, lean your straight arms on your knees or on a high support,
kneeling, lean on a low support (back horizontal).

Birth positions on all fours are suitable for the entire period of labor. You can wait out contractions in them, rest between them, and even push. In poses on all fours with a freely hanging belly, the load is removed from the spine, back and abdominal muscles. The weight of the child does not press down, the abdominal muscles relax, reducing pain. In these positions it is easier to endure contractions and save strength for pushing.

Vertical positions during childbirth

When. IN active phase During the first period, contractions repeat every 3–5 minutes and last about a minute. Painful sensations are intensifying. The dilation of the cervix reaches 5–8 cm, and the time for pushing is approaching. Vertical labor positions will help speed up labor by promoting dilatation of the cervix.

For what. Vertical postures combined with diaphragmatic breathing expand the birth canal, making it easier for the baby to be born. In a vertical position, the force of gravity helps the baby move towards the exit. Normal blood supply to the uterus and placenta is maintained. (See “Guide to Preparing Parents for Having and Raising a Healthy Child”)

Standing with your back against the wall (on your partner)

How. Stand near a wall or have an assistant support you from behind. Legs wider than shoulders, bent, back straight (lower back pressed against the wall). Use diaphragmatic breathing.

Standing on a high support

How. We lean our elbows on the wall or an assistant, put our head on our hands. You can use the back of a stable chair or a tall chest of drawers as support. It's good if you have it on hand different variants, then during childbirth the body itself will choose the optimal height of support.
Breathe with diaphragmatic breathing.

Standing without support

How. Legs wider than shoulders, bent, back straight. We swing left and right. You can do it as a couple, holding hands. This dance will support you and help your baby progress. Don't forget about diaphragmatic breathing.

Squatting

For what.
How. How. Sitting in this position requires practice. Knees apart, heels on the floor, back straight without bending forward. We swing left and right. You can squat not only on the floor, but also on any comfortable and stable surface: on a bed or on a sturdy table. In this case, have your assistant and midwife support you.
Pose option. Swinging on a half-inflated fitball or soft low bag of balls. The surface on which you sit should be soft and resilient. You cannot sit on anything hard during childbirth.

During the active phase of labor, when contractions are long and painful, use vertical labor positions. They speed up the dilatation of the cervix, open the pelvis and help speed up labor. Move actively between contractions; if you are tired, lie on your side. If the midwife allows, you can push in vertical positions, helping the baby to be born.

How to remember

During the birth process, remembering some pictures of birth positions from the Internet is not an easy task. Reinforce theory with practice. Try each pose during pregnancy, breathe in it with diaphragmatic breathing. If you practice every day, gradually memorize all the variations of birth positions. During childbirth you will not have to consciously remember anything - all movements will be intuitive. The position you like during training will not always be comfortable during childbirth. We conducted a survey of women who studied at the Vasilisa School of Parents. 10 out of 15 responded that during childbirth they preferred a different position than the one they had chosen in advance.

Anna: “During pregnancy, I liked the asymmetrical position on all fours. And during childbirth it turned out to be more comfortable to lie on your side and stand leaning on the headboard.”

The secret is simple: to remember all the poses, train and repeat them all. We offer a complex to help. It consists of birthing positions and movements that help the body adjust to childbirth. Every day, 10 minutes of gymnastics and all birth positions will become familiar and easy for you. During childbirth, you will be able to intuitively choose the most suitable and effective ones.

How to use birth positions at home and in the maternity hospital

In the maternity hospital. There are rules here. The most convenient birth position for doctors and obstetricians is a motionless position lying on your back. But this position is not suitable for the woman in labor and the child because of its unnaturalness. This pose is not in the traditions of any people in the world. Therefore, a compromise is needed. Agree in advance what is allowed and what is not. Discuss with the maternity hospital staff in advance your right to choose any birth positions during contractions and defend it together with an assistant, if necessary. Examinations and CTG can be done in a lateral decubitus position.

Maria: “We agreed with the midwife that while the contractions are going on, I can stand, lie or move as I feel comfortable. The fitball helped a lot; I leaned on it while standing and sitting on my knees. And she breathed. I also liked to crawl on all fours on the bed. It probably looked funny, but it really made it easier for me.” .

When is it necessary during childbirth? medical intervention, vertical postures are undesirable. The woman in labor will be asked to lie down if:
premature pregnancy and premature birth,
rapid labor(less than 4 hours),
quick labor (less than 6 hours),
if there are signs of intrauterine growth retardation.

Lie on your side. For pain relief, use diaphragmatic breathing and sacral massage.

Movement and breathing for an easy birth

Birth positions and proper breathing are free and simple ways relieve painful contractions. Study, practice, find your most comfortable and favorite one for relaxation. Train a helper if you take him with you to the birth. Help yourself with movements, this also relieves pain:
walking with high knees,
rocking the pelvis left and right, back and forth,
circular movements,
cross crawl,
swinging on a fitball.

During the birth process, use, thanks to which the baby receives enough oxygen, contractions are relieved and trauma during childbirth is reduced. Study it in advance and practice it with a helper.

Natural birth positions and movement during childbirth help avoid injury to mother and baby and make labor easier, making it less painful.

Have an easy birth!