Real Life Labor Positions for Any Birth: A Doula’s Guide for Pregnant Folks
In movies and TV shows, we almost always see birthing folks laboring while lying down.
But there are so many positions to labor in! And, as doulas, we make sure to tell our clients that practicing labor positions beforehand only helps build your confidence and make them feel more second-nature when it’s time to labor.
So what are the positions that are supported by research to help labor progress? We’ve got a couple of categories to help you sort them through.
Labor Positions for Real Life:
Standing positions: These are any form of being upright in your torso. Picture any form of STANDING, WALKING or LUNGING
Benefits of standing positions:
These use gravity to encourage baby downward
They help you stay active can help lead to a shorter labor
Partner Positions: These are any way of incorporating your partner into your position. Picture SLOW DANCING or Using a REBOZO
Benefits of partner positions:
Movement to music can create a rhythm/ ritual for contraction coping
Can be restful & increase comfort
Allows partner to provide physical support
Birth Ball/ Peanut Ball Positions: These positions incorporate the use of a birth ball or peanut ball. Picture SITTING and SQUATTING
Benefits of birth ball/ peanut ball positions:
Can help rotate baby into the right position
Allows you to shift your weight for comfort
Bed/ Couch Positions: These positions involve a bed, couch, or some similar furniture. Picture KNEELING on HANDS & KNEES or SIDE LYING.
Benefits of Bed/ Couch positions:
Can help relieve pressure & discomfort
Allows partner to provide back massage or counter pressure
No matter what positions you practice, the best positions are the ones that work in labor, so make sure to pack patience and flexibility with you!
Are you interested in learning more about labor positions that work in real life labor? Join our Prenatal Yoga Series or Embodied Childbirth Education series in Asheville!
Are you located outside of Western North Carolina, but you’re still interested in learning with us? Check out our on-demand offerings and join us on your own schedule!
