Being in an upright position during delivery has so many positive benefits. I believe every birthing person should have access to and the ability to chose these positions if desired.
Here are TEN benefits to upright positioning
You’ll get a gravity assist. Working with gravity is much easier than working against it!
Less compression of the aorta which carries the oxygenated blood to mom and baby
Uterus is more efficient and have stronger contractions
Baby will be better positioned to pass through the pelvis
The pelvic outlet is wider. This is the bottom of the pelvis where baby exits. More space here is always good!
Satisfaction rates with birth are higher and pain levels are lower
Shorter length of pushing (by 8 minutes!)
Lower rate of vacuum/forceps assist
Reduced risk of G3-G4 perineal tearing
Fewer cases of cesarean birth due to Failure to Progress
So, two basic take-aways for you would be:
FREE THE TAIL. When the baby is lower in the pelvis, the sacrum and tailbone need to open. If you are in positions that restrict this natural movement, then the outlet space is compromised. You can free your tail by being in more upright positions such as kneeling, hands and knees, birth seat/stool, supported squat and more! These positions are possible with birth team support even with low dose or regular dose epidurals.
USE GRAVITY. This just gives the uterus and baby a natural assist. The path has the least resistance!
Talk with your birth team today to figure out if these positions will be right for you.
As always, thanks to Evidence-Based Birth for keeping me up to date with all this incredible info!!
All women’s bodies are unique. If you would like to know more about how the above relates to your specific condition, email me here. Please also follow us on Instagram or join our private Facebook Group for a ton of free support on common women’s health concerns.