Poses after pregnancy. supine position

The stage of childbirth should pass as smoothly as the phase of refinement and opening. All you need to do is keep control of what is happening and prevent any other people from interfering with the process. You will use self-adjusting labor breathing to assist in the smooth downward movement of the baby.

Nothing needs to be changed until the baby's passage is complete and the head has erupted. An important point is how comfortable the position you have chosen for yourself and how convenient it is for the baby to pass.

There are several postures that help expand birth canal and shorten the time of this stage of labor. Thanks to them, you can also avoid epizotomy.

For a long time, women in labor have used postures proposed by doctors and midwives - convenient for carrying out medical procedures and introductions surgical instruments. The methods of childbirth have changed, but the postures have remained the same: the woman lies on her back in a lithotomy position (legs raised, spread apart and fixed). Today in the hypnobirthing program we are faced with a large number doctors who take into account the interests of the mother and are ready to participate in childbirth, no matter what position the woman in labor takes, if this position seems comfortable to her. The supine position with fixed legs is certainly one of those positions of a woman in labor, which is long overdue. This position is one of the least effective, contributing to tears and the need for surgical incisions in the perineum.

The postures below may require some practice for you and your partner to tone your leg and arm muscles, but you will certainly appreciate them during labor.

Reclining position for childbirth (inclined "J")

This pose is used very often and helps you maintain a state of deep relaxation as your baby breathes out and his soft, easy descent. In this position, you are on the bed, leaning on a point above the coccyx and laying at an angle of forty-five degrees. Usually, your legs are spread apart, a pillow is placed under each knee. One variation of this pose is a reclining position with bent knees: move your ankles towards your buttocks and spread your legs wide apart. This pose allows you to stretch and expand the perineal area.

Side birth position

You'll love this position because many moms talk about occasionally falling asleep while in one of the side-lying positions. Many women choose this position for their relaxation activities. It is very convenient for childbirth, because it allows you to easily, without changing position, move from the opening phase to the process of exhaling the baby down the birth canal. At the time of delivery, one leg, which previously lay on the pillow, is lifted to open access to the vaginal opening when the baby appears there. Until then, you can remain as you are, with both of your feet resting on the pillows.

Birth position jumping frog

This position is one of the squatting positions that many experts consider the most effective for childbirth. Squatting down, place your hands on the floor in front of or behind your hips. When your hands are behind your back, you can very easily spread your legs wider, and then you will see your baby at the time of birth. Another advantage of the jumping frog pose is that the pelvic area is suspended, which allows the baby to easily jump through this area without any pressure from other parts of the body. This position widens the area of the vaginal opening, allows the use of gravity, reduces the length of the birth canal and relieves any pressure on the lower pelvic region. If you decide to use this position during childbirth, you need to exercise regularly so that your arm muscles can withstand such a load, but no matter how hard the training requires, it's worth it.

Supported squatting position for childbirth

All the benefits of the jumping frog pose will continue for you and your baby if you squat with support. Instead of leaning your hands on the floor, you can perfectly use the hips of your companion for this. Your arms are bent at the elbows and rest on the top of his legs, while the birth partner is sitting on a low chair if you are giving birth at home, or on the edge of a lowered hospital bed if you are giving birth in medical center. This position allows you to straighten your back between contractions and lean on your partner, returning to the starting position with the start of a new contraction. This pose has all the benefits of the jumping frog position.

Childbirth position sitting on the toilet

Many women find sitting on the toilet very comfortable during the opening phase and exhaling the baby down. The body responds organically to this posture because it has become accustomed to it during the usual relief in the toilet. This position is also very familiar to mothers who have practiced hypnobirthing techniques, because emptying the bowels in the toilet is a traditional place to practice labor breathing. The two muscle groups are closely related to each other and labor breathing supports the natural ejection reflex involved in childbirth. This posture allows expansion of the perineum, opens up the vagina, uses gravity, and frees you from having to support yourself with your arms or legs. Just put one or two pillows under your back and relax. When the baby is close to being born, you will have to change position so that he can safely exit.

Birthing position birthing chair

Sitting in a birthing chair allows many of the benefits of sitting on the toilet. It also facilitates expansion of the perineal region and shortens the length of the birth canal. In addition, this position gives the woman in labor the opportunity to lean on her partner in between contractions. Just like the toilet sitting position, this position is familiar to moms because it is used to practice labor breathing.

Posture for childbirth position with support on the knees and hands

This pose is very easy to get into from the jumping frog position. To do this, you just need to move your hands a little forward, lift lower part of your body. In this position, your body weight will be evenly distributed between your arms and legs. This position is often chosen by women who have chosen midwives as assistants because it makes it very easy to get to the baby if he needs help to get into the optimal position for birth. You can use one of the variations of this pose by leaning on a fitball. In some cases, hospital beds can also be customized to serve as a support. If you are giving birth at home, you can get the same effect by placing pillows under your arms and knees.

Standing position for childbirth with support

The supported standing position allows you to take advantage of gravity to help your baby move down the birth canal. It assumes that your partner rests his back against the wall, spreading his arms wide apart. You can lean on him by passing his arms under your armpits. Both of you should bend your knees slightly.

Pose for childbirth "Polar bear"

This position is not suitable for childbirth, but can be very useful if the baby is not in the most best pose for the birth. It is easy to move into this position from a position based on the knees and hands. Lower your elbows to the floor in front of you and rest your head on your hands. Both poses are polar bear and support on the knees and hands - allow the baby to move back a little from the pelvic area and take more vantage point for birth, if necessary.

If the child needs help getting into a more comfortable position, the Rebozo technique can be used in the polar bear position. They were invented by the midwife Guadalupe Trueba, are well known in Mexico and very quickly mastered in maternity wards in the United States. The essence of the technique is that pelvic region a long scarf is stretched under the belly of the woman in labor, and then pulled up. This maneuver pulls the baby out of the position he has already taken, and gives him the opportunity to move back a little and return back in an already successful position.

At home, if you don't have a suitable scarf, you might as well use a curtain, a small sheet, or a tablecloth. Large sheets are uncomfortable due to their size. Savvy nurses are sure to come up with something in a hospital setting.

If during childbirth you are offered surgical intervention Because the position of the baby is not comfortable enough for birth, and you and the baby are feeling well, ask for time and opportunity to use the polar bear position, the Rebozo technique and self-hypnosis - try to persuade the baby to roll over. As long as you and your baby are in good health, the baby's uncomfortable position cannot be a reason for emergency medical attention.

position during childbirth

Most best position- something that makes you feel good. Almost all positions are acceptable, with the exception of "lying on your back." On the one hand, it slows down labor activity, on the other hand, it blocks the main blood vessels and, as a result, blood flow to the child.

The back should be straight, not bent. Labor activity is better in a standing position, sitting (on a bed, on a chair, in the arms of a future dad), kneeling (on a bed or on the floor) and riding a chair.

Walking stimulates activity in the same way as the positions above and helps to bear the pain more easily.

Some women claim that the pain is relieved by being on all fours...

If you are more accustomed to lying down, lie on your left or right side, stretching one leg and pulling the other to your chest.

I have heard that there may be bleeding as the time of delivery approaches. Why?

Bleeding before childbirth

In most cases, bleeding before childbirth occurs due to the prolapse of the mucous plug or the beginning of the expansion of the cervix. Nothing to worry about.

Recall that even if the bleeding is not heavy, you need to go to the hospital. The doctors will find out that you have neither high blood pressure, no protein in the urine, that the placenta is not too low, that there is no retroplacental hematoma.
You should also make sure that heartbeat child is normal.

The fetal bladder burst, and the liquid was not light, but greenish-brown. What's this?

amniotic fluid color

A greenish-brownish color of the liquid indicates the release of original feces ("meconium") digestive system child, which usually occurs after birth. The child apparently experienced stress in the uterus and emptied in amniotic fluid before your birth.

This color does not mean the child's illness, but it is advisable to consult a doctor without delay. Careful observation is necessary.

Women who have given birth, like no one else, will agree with the statement that the process of the birth of 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 in no case should this be allowed, 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. Nature has spoken here. But childbirth is not the case when you can go by trial and error. Therefore, it is much better to familiarize yourself with the positions that can be taken during childbirth, with the advantages of some over others, and choose the best option for yourself.

Postures during fights

If your childbirth is not marked as "complicated", during contractions, doctors will allow you to behave in a way that is convenient for you. Take any comfortable position, walk around the ward, hang by clinging to 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 poured out, immerse yourself in a bath filled with warm water. Some people find it easier to be in the shower. During the contraction, the posture in which the woman stands with support on the wall, table, back of a chair or bed reduces pain. When taking this pose, it is very important to transfer the weight of the torso to the hands. If a woman in labor has a backache, the "cat pose" will be effective, when the woman gets on all fours or hangs on her husband's neck so that the stomach sags. In addition, you can rock your pelvis and hips, creating movements that relax the muscles of the perineum 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 presses on the tissues pelvic floor, but the cervix has not yet fully opened, the so-called "baby pose" will be effective. In this case, the woman will have to kneel down and push them as wide as possible, and put a large pillow under her chest.

Postures during childbirth

supine position

Previously, our women all without exception gave birth lying on their backs. But now many maternity hospitals and clinics have revised their views on this approach, because it has already been proven that this position is most convenient for doctors and uncomfortable for a woman and her child. By the way, postures on the back during childbirth are 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 impaired blood supply to the vital important organs and in the placenta, can cause dizziness, a feeling of lightheadedness. In addition, in this position, the uterus contracts inefficiently, its cervix opens slowly. Moreover, such a position complicates the correct insertion and rotation of the child's head, and increases the pain of the woman.

The position on the back is justified only in some cases. For example, when the pregnancy is premature, the baby has signs intrauterine delay, when labor is rapid or rapid labor, as well as when breech presentation. In addition, such a position will have to be accepted by the woman who will be carried out. In this case, it is necessary that the anesthetic spread 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 the 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 put a pillow under the leg. 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) rises, but also remains bent at the knee. For convenience, you can hold the leg with your hand.

giving birth in a high squat position

For this pose, you need to squat down, clasping your knees and spreading your legs. The torso should be tilted forward and the head lowered down, as if you are spying on what is happening. During the last attempts, you need to be more 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 child. The woman in labor should rest against someone (for example, her husband) or something with her hands in order to maintain balance. In this position, the woman does not need to push. The child comes out.

give birth standing

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

giving birth on all fours

This position does not require an assistant. The woman herself controls the process. Also, the advantage of this position is that a woman does not give birth quickly, and in some situations this is very important. For example, such a position can play a significant role in repeated births when the birth canal is 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 rather fall down. If it is necessary, on the contrary, to hold the child, the woman will be advised to raise the pelvis, dropping onto her elbows. As soon as the head is cut through, the obstetrician will ask the woman in labor to return to her original position - on all fours.

In whatever position you decide to give birth, remember that you should always relax. It is especially contraindicated to pinch at the moment of approach and during a fight. Listen to your midwife, tune in favorable outcome and everything will work out for you!

Specially for- Elena Kichak

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

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

Disadvantages of the posture "on the back" of a woman in labor

Pose in horizontal position inhibits the process of normal delivery, which interferes with effective contractions of the muscles of the uterus, full disclosure of the cervix, the correct rotation of the baby's head and its insertion, 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 in vital organs, including the placenta, blood supply, the 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 because of the possible muscle weakness and sharp drop blood pressure;

breech presentation of the baby in a woman - in case the woman 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 appearance of such a situation can lead to emergency delivery;

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

rapid or rapid delivery - the vertical position can accelerate - "force" the process of childbirth and thereby provide 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 every woman, equally, like every childbirth, is unique.

Most often, most women prefer any one of the vertical postures: 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, the normal blood supply to the organs and the placenta is preserved. When choosing the most intuitively comfortable position, the woman in labor thereby helps her baby. For example, with the help of some asymmetry of postures, achieved by a slight rise in the pelvis or by pushing one leg forward, the child’s head is inserted correctly, its normal rotation is carried out and right course childbirth. Also, in a vertical position, due to the force of gravity, the child can move freely through the birth canal and there is some expansion of the birth canal.

Most a long period childbirth is the first period, characterized by regular, gradually becoming more frequent, as well as intensifying contractions, leading to disclosure uterine cervix. Fulfilling active movements during childbirth at this time, a 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, with the help of the chosen position, the woman in labor can rest and relax.

Most women endure the onset of labor easier when walking, since walking, combined with raising the legs high, improves blood circulation, thereby increasing the delivery of oxygen to the baby and uterus.

standing pose

During the fight itself, to reduce pain, you can take a standing position, leaning on a wall and a table, headboard or chair, since all the weight is transferred to your hands. If a husband is present at the birth itself, then you can hang by grabbing him by the neck, or leaning on his back or shoulders. Postures with the belly tilting forward and its “sagging”, on all fours, in the “cat pose”, hanging on the husband’s neck, the posture with forward bends, can help reduce the intensity of pain in the back. In addition, during the fight, it is desirable to perform “swinging” of the pelvis and hips. Performing such movements can relax the muscles of the perineum to a more pronounced degree, as well as open the cervix in full.

sitting posture

When choosing a sitting posture, you need to take into account the fact that the seat surface is softer, preferably elastic. For this purpose, it is better to use either large inflatable balls or children's swimming circles during childbirth. With the help of 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 during the fight should not be closed, since with this position the opening of the cervix is incomplete. For greater efficiency, you can spread your knees as wide as possible to the sides.

Squatting posture

The squatting pose with the knees wide apart is also effective. Thanks to the implementation of this posture, you can contribute to the correct process of inserting the head and facilitated the passage of the baby through the birth canal. This is also facilitated by a certain angle taken when tilting the pelvis, achieved by squatting. It is most effective to use this position in cases of complete opening of the cervix and the absence of the baby's head lowering to the pelvic floor. The disadvantage of this position - the squatting position - is the instability of the woman 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 positions is the lotus position, the adoption of which by a woman during childbirth is very effective. For a long stay in the lotus position, preliminary training is necessary even during pregnancy. Only when this condition during childbirth, taking 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 unload the back muscles, relieve pain in lumbar region and excessive stress. It is advisable to take these postures at the very beginning of labor, during the period of small intervals between contractions, when they are not very painful and the cervix is in a state of very early opening. In the case of active labor and a large opening of the outlet - the pharynx - the cervix, it is advisable not to sit on a hard surface, as an obstacle is created for the fetus to move 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 with 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 also an intrauterine delay.

In water

You can immerse yourself in a bath of water if the outpouring of water has not yet occurred. Also, contractions are easier to bear in a standing position under the shower.

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

Pose "baby"

In the event that the baby’s head has completely lowered and its pressure on the tissues of the pelvic floor occurs, while the cervix has not yet fully opened, then the adoption of the “baby pose”, which is an imitation of the position of the child in the womb, helps. You need to kneel, while spreading them wide. To support under the chest, you need to put a large pillow, and put your hands under your head; when taking this position, the pelvis should be above the head of the pregnant woman. This position contributes to the absence of pressure on the baby's head and reduces the intensity of discomfort.

asymmetrical posture

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

In a number of maternity hospitals, a woman is now able to perform active movements during the first stage of labor. But with an increase in contractions, at the end of the period of cervical dilatation, and also at the beginning of attempts (the beginning of the second stage of labor), the woman in labor should lie on her back. A special device is preliminarily connected, which allows you to monitor the heart rate - heart rate - in 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 tears, which are possible only in the position of a woman 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 special handrails towards herself, resting her feet on special supports. Few maternity hospitals are equipped with special chairs for vertical births. Fetal heartbeats are recorded by special telemetric devices, which save the woman in labor from the need to be on the bed. However, the use of these devices has not yet become widespread in our maternity hospitals.

Typically performed in awkward posture anything is extremely difficult: tense and tired muscles can make themselves felt quite quickly. Since childbirth is a rather long and laborious process, it is necessary to choose the position that is most suitable for you and your baby in advance, with a preliminary consultation with a doctor.

Childbirth - natural process for which is being prepared female body throughout all 9 months. But expectant mothers, especially primiparas, often experience fear of the pain that occurs during childbirth. We care about your health, so today we’ll talk about how to relieve pain during contractions.

Causes of pain during contractions

Many moms-to-be are ready to go through C-section so as not to experience labor pain. But let's see what causes discomfort and how to correct them.

Conventionally, the birth process is divided into two stages: contractions and attempts. During contractions, the cervix opens, which contains many sensitive endings. Also, this organ begins to contract independently, the ligaments are stretched, intra-abdominal pressure changes. Such pain is called visceral pain, while it does not have a specific location, it feels like a dull one. For most women, these symptoms resemble the discomfort that occurs during menstruation.

After the contractions end, the pushing begins. During them, the child passes through the birth canal, which causes stretching of its lower part. This pain has exact localization: rectum, vagina and perineum. Pain during attempts is called somatic, it is characterized as acute.

negative emotions, severe stress and fears can reduce pain threshold during childbirth.

Sometimes these feelings are the reason severe pain during fights. Also, the following factors influence the appearance of painful sensations:

childbirth before the due date;
large fruit;
pain during menstruation in the past;
long birth process;
the first contractions are not long in time;
the use of oxytocin;
first birth;
insufficient psycho-emotional preparation of the expectant mother;
discharge of amniotic fluid.

How contractions start

The first contractions are short in time and are repeated almost every 20 minutes. Their duration is up to 25 seconds and, as a rule, does not cause much discomfort to the expectant mother.

Gradually, the pharynx of the uterus opens more, the duration of contractions increases, and the gap between them decreases.

On average, the total duration of the opening of the cervix of the uterus is from 2 to 12 hours. So mentally prepare for the fact that this period of time you will experience different degrees pain, from minimal to maximal.

Can be used to reduce pain various methods, ranging from special poses to water procedures.

Postures to relieve pain during contractions

During contractions, it is important to find the optimal body position for yourself, being in which the pain will decrease. There are about ten poses in total, you can try each of them.

Postures to relieve pain while standing:

Place your hands on the wall. Spread your legs a little, relax your tummy and back so that the entire weight of the body moves to your legs and arms. Begin to make smooth swaying movements in different directions.
Squat down, spread your legs as wide as you can. Emphasize the body on a full foot. Back against the wall.
Place your hands on your hips and place your feet shoulder-width apart. Begin to make swaying and smooth movements, as if drawing an infinity sign with your body.

Poses to Reduce Pain in the Kneeling Position:

kneel down, put your head and hands on the bed so that the torso sags and the weight is distributed to the limbs;
take the starting position, then lean on the fitball with your chest and arms, and then begin to perform rotational movements.

Postures to reduce pain on the couch:

Get on all fours, lean on your knees and elbows. Your legs should be slightly apart. Try to arch your back from the bottom up.
Take the starting position, as in the first position. Spread your legs a little and start rocking back and forth.
Get on all fours, then start shifting from one knee to another. Important: kneel, lean on the back of the couch with your hands.

And another pose lying on side. Bend your knees and place a pillow between them.

If, even before conception, your periods often passed with pain, while the discomfort was localized in the lumbar region, then in your case it is undesirable to lie down during contractions. Because it will make the pain worse. It is best to spend the entire period of contractions on your feet. Or squat, as this pose speeds up the opening of the cervix.

Massage during contractions

Massage relaxes not only after labor day but also during the fight. It is important to understand how to do it correctly.

If you are in labor with your husband, ask him to massage your head, lower back and neck, but only if the pain is localized in the lumbar region.

If there is no one around you, then give yourself a massage yourself. To do this, rub with your fist lumbar during fights. When the pain recedes, knead the protruding fingers with your fingers. pelvic bones. Such procedures contribute to muscle relaxation after tone.

Water procedures

Some women decide to give birth in water, saying that warm water reduces pain during contractions and attempts. Perhaps that is why most maternity hospitals have begun to practice the use of warm shower during fights.

This procedure is voluntary. Its essence lies in being under the jets warm water during fights. As some women in labor note, warm water relaxes and calms a little.

Relaxing music during contractions

You probably heard about healing properties favorite musical compositions. So what's stopping you from taking a music player to the antenatal ward? We are sure that doctors will not mind, especially if such a procedure will positively affect labor activity.

Also I would like to note that mental attitude plays a huge role in the process of childbirth. Do not know how to stop thinking about pain during contractions and attempts? Just think that in an hour or a few minutes you will meet with your baby, whom you have been waiting for so long. And we assure you, it will be much easier for you!

How to breathe

Your ability to breathe properly during contractions and attempts will significantly reduce the pain from the process.

As soon as they started attempts, breathe like this:

count to four in your mind, then inhale through your nose;
count to six, exhale through pursed lips.

As soon as the time of strong contractions has come, start breathing like a dog. For this:

open your mouth;
take shallow breaths in and out.

Accelerated breathing during strong contractions can reduce pain.

As soon as it happened disclosure, start breathing like this:

inhale deeply and quickly through the nose;
fold your lips into a tube, then exhale quickly.

Your breaths should be shallow and fast, only in this case the pain will become less.

started attempts? Breathe like this:

do deep breath through the nose;
sing the letters "o" or "a" along with the exhalation through the mouth.

Your exhalation should be like blowing out a candle.

All of the above methods are effective in contractions and attempts.. If you have during birth process there is little strength left, think about the good. For example, about an early meeting with the baby, pleasant changes in your life, or even about the fact that childbirth will someday end.

Health and easy childbirth to you!

The birth of a new life is like a miracle. At the same time, childbirth is 15–20 hours of hard work. Help your body get the job done by using birth postures and movements.

Birth positions are the positions of the body in which the woman in labor feels most comfortable and convenient. They are natural for a woman giving birth and help to anesthetize contractions, save strength and move the baby to the exit from the pelvis.

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

Ancestral postures. Fragment of the video aid "Preparation for natural childbirth"

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

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

We recommend combining birth poses with diaphragmatic breathing. This is when the stomach expands when inhaling, not the chest. According to osteopaths, healthy people breathe from birth. In childbirth, this type of breathing helps to open the cervix, expands the birth canal and relieves contractions.

Birth 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 task of a woman is to relax, breathe and save strength for the next stage - attempts. For this, poses are suitable to help reduce pain and relax between contractions.

Lying on your side

Why. For rest in childbirth.
Helps to properly insert the head into the birth canal and reduces the likelihood of injury to the baby.
How. Lie on your side, on the side of which the back of the child is located. Place a roll, pillow, or arm under your head. Place one or more pillows between your legs. Even if you are not allowed to move freely in the hospital, this position will help you survive the period of contractions. During pregnancy, in this position it is convenient to relax, train diaphragmatic breathing and just fall asleep. For training, lie down on a comfortable side.

On knees

Why. Breathe the fight.
Helps reduce back pain. Swinging in this position relaxes the muscles of the perineum, contributes to the opening of the cervix.
How. Settle in convenient location: on the bed or on a rug on the floor. Swing back and forth - imagine yourself as one big ball. Use diaphragmatic breathing.

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

On all fours with a raised pelvis

Why. 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 a long breath open mouth(uh_uh_fu_u_u_u_u). Or breathe like a dog.

Sitting or kneeling, leaning on a support of different heights

Why. Breathe 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, out of habit, the legs quickly “numb”. Remember diaphragmatic breathing.

Options for this pose:
sitting on your knees, lie down forward on a low support,
sitting on your knees, lean with straight arms on your knees or on a high support,
kneeling, lean on a low support (back horizontally).

Birth positions on all fours are suitable for the entire period of childbirth. In them, you can wait out the contractions, rest between them and even push. In poses on all fours with a freely hanging belly, the load is removed from the spine, back muscles and abdomen. 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 attempts.

Upright postures in childbirth

When. AT active phase the first period of contractions are repeated every 3-5 minutes and last about a minute. Painful sensations intensify. The opening of the cervix reaches 5-8 cm, the time of attempts is approaching. Upright labor positions will help speed up labor by helping to dilate the cervix.

Why. Upright postures, combined with diaphragmatic breathing, widen the birth canal, making it easier for the baby to be born. In an upright position, gravity helps the baby move towards the exit. Normal blood supply to the uterus and placenta is maintained. (See "Guidelines for Preparing Parents for Having and Raising a Healthy Baby")

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

How. Stand next to 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 high ground

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

Standing without support

How. Legs wider than shoulders, bent, back straight. We swing left and right. You can do it in pairs, holding hands. Such a dance will support you and help the promotion of the baby. Don't forget diaphragmatic breathing.

Squatting

Why.
How. How. Sitting in this position requires practice. The knees are apart, the heels are on the floor, the back is straight without tilting forward. We swing left and right. You can squat down 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 an assistant and a midwife support you.
Pose option. Rocking on a semi-inflated fitball or soft low bag with balls. The surface you sit on should be soft and resilient. It is impossible to sit on a solid in childbirth.

In the active phase of labor, when contractions are long and painful, use upright labor positions. They speed up the opening of the cervix, open the pelvis and help speed up labor. Between contractions, move actively, if you are tired, lie on your side. If the midwife allows, you can push in vertical poses, helping the baby to be born.

How to remember

Remembering some pictures of birth positions from the Internet during childbirth is not an easy task. Back up theory with practice. Try every pose during pregnancy, breathe diaphragmatic breathing in it. If you practice every day, gradually remember all the options for generic postures. In childbirth, you won’t have to consciously remember anything - all movements will be intuitive. Not always the position that you like during training will be comfortable in childbirth. We conducted a survey of women who studied at the Vasilisa Parents School. 10 out of 15 answered that they preferred a different position during childbirth, and not the one they had chosen in advance.

Anna: “During pregnancy, I liked the asymmetrical position on all fours. And in childbirth, it turned out to be more convenient to lie on your side and stand, leaning on the back of the bed.

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

How to apply birth positions at home and in the hospital

In the maternity home. There are rules here. The most convenient birth position for doctors and obstetricians is a fixed position lying on your back. But this position is not suitable for a woman in labor and a child because of its unnaturalness. There is no such pose in the traditions of any people in the world. Therefore, a compromise is needed. Agree in advance what is possible and what is not. Discuss with the hospital staff in advance your right to choose any birth positions during labor and defend it with the assistant, if necessary. Examinations and CTG can be done in a pose lying on your side.

Maria: “We agreed with the midwife that while the contractions, I can stand, lie down or move, as I please. The fitball helped a lot, I leaned on it, 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 during childbirth is required medical intervention, vertical poses undesirable. A woman in labor will be asked to lie down if:
premature pregnancy and premature birth,
rapid delivery(less than 4 hours),
rapid labor (less than 6 hours),
if there are signs of intrauterine growth retardation of the fetus.

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

Movement and breathing for easy childbirth

birth postures and correct breathing- free and simple ways relieve painful contractions. Explore, practice, find your most comfortable and favorite for relaxation. Teach the helper if you are bringing one with you to the birth. Help yourself with movements, this also anesthetizes contractions:
walking with knees high
swaying the pelvis to the right-left, back-forward,
circular motion,
cross crawl,
fitball swing.

During childbirth, use, thanks to which the child receives enough oxygen, contractions are anesthetized and injuries during childbirth are reduced. Learn in advance and practice it with an assistant.

Natural birth positions and movements during childbirth help avoid injury to mother and baby and make labor easier and less painful.

Easy childbirth!