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Pusing Positions for Natural Birth

There are many benefits to natural birth. One of the benefits of drug free birth is freedom of movement. When drugs are given, many hospitals restrict the mother to the traditional hospital position of lying on your back, or the newer semi sitting position for pushing, throughout labor and birth. However, this is often not the best position for birth.

This position is the most convenient for the doctor attending the birth and nurses doing exams, but is not the best for mom. When women are free to get into the most comfortable position during labor, they rarely lie down on their backs. Proponents of natural birth say that when women are free to move and change positions, they will naturally get into the best position to help the baby be born and find some relief from the pain.

There are a few positions that are thought to be helpful in natural birth. These are generally positions that allow gravity to work with the birthing process. For many women, these include kneeling, squatting, leaning forward or in a standing positions. Try these positions if you are planning a natural birth.

Proponents of natural birth say that you will naturally move into the right position as your baby moves down the birth canal. This movement aids the baby’s passage through the birth canal. For example, the forward leaning position is believed to help align the pelvis to make it easier for the baby to move through and into the birth canal. Semi sitting or lying positions can actually inhibit the baby’s movement, causing a longer birth and more pain.

If you are planning a natural birth, try out a variety of positions during your pregnancy. These are taught in Bradley childbirth classes and other classes with a focus on natural birth. Write your birth plan to include freedom of movement and go with your natural instincts when the time comes.

Related Articles:

Benefits of a Natural Birth

Is Natural Birth Better for Bonding?

Does Natural Birth Really Matter?

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About Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. Just before her third child was born, the family relocated to Pennsylvania to be near family. She stopped teaching and began writing. This gives her the opportunity to work from home and be with her children. She enjoys spending time with her family, doing crafts, playing outside at the park or just hanging out together.