Positions for labour
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Choosing the right position during labour can help you feel more in control, ease pain and aid in opening your pelvis for a smoother birth.
- Swaying or walking and holding a support person during the contractions.
- Kneeling, using a chair or birthing ball (yoga or 'fit' ball) for support.
- Sitting or kneeling in a bath.
- Leaning forward over the bed.
- Kneeling on hands and knees to help reduce back pain.
- Squatting, using a birthing stool or ball.
- Standing and moving in the shower.
- Sitting and rocking on a chair or edge of the bed.
- Sitting backwards on a chair, with arms resting on the back of the chair.
- Sitting on a chair leaning forward.
- Lunging with one foot up on a chair or stool.
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Last reviewed: June 2024