During labour, there is no right or wrong position to be in. What works for you is what matters. You can change positions as often as you like.
You may find that different positions work best at different times. Moving around freely and changing positions when you need to can help you cope with labour.
Some positions you might choose:
- Upright, standing and walking – gravity will help your baby move downwards
- Sitting on a chair, birthing ball or birthing stool allows you to rest whilst staying upright
- Kneeling or on all fours can ease back pain, and allow your baby to move position
- Side lying or using a peanut ball helps open your pelvis – peanut balls can make labour more comfortable, and help labour progress. Peanut balls are available in the hospital, please let your midwife know if you would like to try one.
- Squatting opens the pelvis and allows the baby to move down
Keep moving
Moving around, being upright, and changing position during labour can:
- Increase your chance of a shorter labour
- Help you feel less pain, and cope better with contractions
- Lead to fewer interventions, including a lower chance of caesarean birth
- Make you feel more in control of your labour
- Result in a better birth experience.
Most people want to move during labour. Being in a birth pool can make it easier to change positions. It can also help with pain relief.
