Don’t Take Childbirth Lying Down—New Labor Positions You May Want to Try

Positions You Can Try for Labor and Childbirth

Penny Simkin, Janet Whalley, and Ann Keppler, authors of Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide, recommend the following positions for labor and childbirth:

For Labor

Walking and Standing: Gravity will work with contractions as you stand or walk through labor pains.

Leaning: Lean against a wall, bed, or partner to support yourself.

Rocking: Gently moving your body back and forth may help you relax. You could rock in a chair or even against your partner.

Hands and Knees: This position can help relieve back pain.

Squatting/Sitting on a Birthing Ball: This position helps the pelvic opening stretch wider.

Side-Lying: Though similar to the recumbent position, lying on your side on the hospital bed can bring relief without working against gravity.

For Childbirth

Hands and Knees: This position can relieve the pressure of back pain.

Squatting: Most women are not accustomed to squatting, and you may need a partner to help you stay in this position. Many hospitals and birth centers have a birthing bar at the end of the bed to help you balance.