Positions for labour and birth
During labour, it is good to stay as active as possible, and to try different positions. By doing this you will encourage your baby through the birth canal in the best position for birth, whilst also helping your own comfort and coping ability. Staying active and upright is also known to shorten the length of labour.
You can try:
- walking
- standing with support from your birth partner
- going up and down stairs
- rocking/swaying
- using a birthing ball
- sitting upright or squatting
- all fours position (on your hands and knees) or kneeling
- lying on your side, supported by pillows (when you want to rest).
Positions for birth
