The following information is provided by
The Midwifery Centre Bath Road (Near Tag Lane) Hare Hatch Berks. RG10 9SP. 0118 940 4490 http://www.themidwiferycentre.co.uk/ Company No: 5923259
This information is for expectant mums and their partners to encourage your baby to go into the ideal position for birth before your labour begins. If your baby is coming head first and is a single baby (not multiple pregnancies), then from 34 weeks onwards this advice is given to encourage your baby to lie with its back to your left/front. This also will encourage your baby to engage, thereby enjoying as normal and straightforward a birth as possible.
Please note this advice is only meant to complement your antenatal care and may not be suitable for all women or all pregnancies. Always consult your childbirth/health professional.
By going onto all four’s, you relax the uterus and it becomes like a hammock. The weight of your baby should then help to bring his back forward. Ideally his back should be uppermost for labour. Try kneeling for at least 30 minutes a day. Washing floors/skirting boards is good.
Note: Some of these positions can work well in the Birthing Pool
If possible stay on your feet, leaning forward and rocking hips side to side / up and down with each contraction. Keep your bottom wiggling during contractions! Lean forward over a beanbag. Hang onto something with arms well above waist height (e.g. partner’s neck!) and let your body sag, turning knees outward. Sit your partner on a chair, kneel on the floor knees apart, and lean on his thighs (this is great because he can rub your back at the same time!).
Get on all fours either on bed or floor, whichever your prefer. If you are on a bed, lie on your side, preferably left.
Try to avoid lying on your back in a reclining position in bed.
Note : Effective labour has only begun when your tummy changes shape with each contraction.