A supine position is preferrable during the latent stage, when you need to save your strength and energy. We know that during the latent stage, when the baby’s head descends through the pelvis, it is easier if the woman is lying in an upright position. Switch between lying on your right and left side, and prop a pillow between your legs.
Your position will change as the contractions and pain increase. In active labor, an upright position is the best option if you want to reap the benefits. It’s only natural to wonder, “how am I supposed to be upright and moving around as the pain increases”. This is where your partner and the staff are a great help. Aids such as a walker, birthing ball, headboard and the birthing bed can make it easier to find upright positions that also allow you to rest during a break in contractions. One strategy is to set up different stations in the delivery room that you can go between, and take five contractions at each station. One station could be the walker, the next the birthing ball, one kneeling in bed with a bean bag, and one leaning on your partner. This not only gives you a variety of positions to switch between, but it also helps to pass the time.
During the transition stage, you can switch between lying on your side for five contractions, and then on your knees for five contractions.
During the expulsion stage, we recommend switching between kneeling, sitting on a birthing stool and kneeling on a mattress. How you deliver you baby depends on the position in which you birth your infant. The most important thing is that you can deliver your baby at your own pace.
There are no studies that indicate certain positions are more associated than others with the risk of severe tears.
Sources:
- Abascal, G., & Huss, M. S. (2018). Att föda. Bonnier Fakta.