Relaxing positions during labour

When it comes to giving birth, there’s no “one size fits all”. Every woman, pregnancy and birth is unique. So there’s no single best position to give birth in. What works for one woman may not feel good for another. Fortunately, there’s plenty of room for variety!

Changing position regularly can work wonders. It helps you cope better with contractions because your body produces its own pain relief (endorphins), which makes the pain feel less intense. On top of that, contractions often stay stronger, which helps your cervix open faster and generally makes labour progress more smoothly. It can also be good to spend a lot of time standing, sitting or squatting. Your pelvis is wider then, and gravity helps your baby descend faster. Curious which positions are often used during the first stage and the pushing stage? See an overview of birthing positions per stage here.

It’s entirely up to you which position you choose during labour. While you’re giving birth, you’ll feel for yourself what’s most comfortable. And you can trust that. Your body knows exactly what to do! And whether you give birth at home or in hospital, there’s a lot that’s possible.

If you can, I’d advise you to wait as long as possible before lying down. Lying down can slow the progress of labour. Want to rest? Then you can also try a stable side-lying position, with a cushion for some extra support at your back and between your legs.

But… if lying on your back feels best for you, or you’re completely in your bubble and don’t feel the need to change position, that’s absolutely fine too, of course! Above all, don’t be too hard on yourself, and go with the flow.

In the video you’ll find a few positions plus relaxation tips:

1. Rocking: for a sense of safety
2. Relaxed side-lying: for optimal relaxation
3. Loving touch: oxytocin release for effective contractions
4. Sideline release: creates space in the pelvis
5. All fours: gravity helps, and it’s a good position for coping with back labour

It’s useful to explore the options beforehand. Which positions are possible at home, in the bath or shower, or in a hospital bed? What appeals to me? There’s no need to choose in advance: during labour you’ll experience what works best. Do make sure you have some cushions or blankets that can support you well, and a birthing ball is handy to have nearby, too.

Talk through the different positions with your partner and practise a few of them, so you both get a feel for how they can best support you.

And of course there’s much more that’s possible! Would you like to practise this together with your partner? Book a free introductory chat or book a (private) pregnancy course.

And as a doula, I can of course also support you and your partner with this during your labour.

I look forward to meeting you!