We’re sure you’ve been preparing and planning for your baby’s arrival right from the time your pregnancy test came back positive! Nothing can take away from the anticipation of bringing a new little one into this world. However, as you get closer to your expected due date, you should beprepared for birth itself. Here is some information to help you out.
Getting into position
Remember that the entire process of labour and delivery can take a fairly long time, and you need to get as comfortable as you possibly can! It’s, in fact, a good idea to keep changing positions as you go through the stages of labour.This will help you as well as the babyprepares for delivery.
Most women have been encouraged to go through labour while lying down flat on their backs. This makes it easier for doctors to monitor the expectant mother. However, with the widespread information now available to us, doctors do suggest alternative positions as well. These are likely to help your body and the baby respond better during the entire process.
Let’s check out the most common birthing positions.
- Getting down on all fours – This position is believed to reduce strain on the mother’s back since it takes pressure off the spine. For the baby, this position may help boost oxygen levels and the baby’s heart rate may fare better. If you do assume this position, remember that it may cause a slight strain on your arms, so be sure there is someone to help you up!
- Squatting – This position requires that you use props – either the wall or a chair – for support. Squatting helps open up the pelvis and is also beneficial for the baby as it moves along the birth canal. Doctors recommend that you squat when you’re progressing closer to childbirth.
- Reclining – As labour progresses, you may tend to tire, and taking this position may offer some much-needed relief by relaxing the muscles. It is also a good alternative to lying down flat, allowing you to prop yourself up against a wall or chair.
- Kneeling – Some women choose to kneel when in labour, because of the relief it offers against contractions and backache. Sometimes, a baby faces the mother’s abdomen and not her back, and kneeling can help turn the baby around into the right position to give birth in. Your doctor may encourage you to take the support of your forearms in case your wrists get tired of supporting your body.
- Lying on the side – Here, you would need to lie on your side with your knees bent, which gives the mother’s body rest once contractions build up. To help you along, your doctor may hold one of your legs up, creating just the right pressure for you to be able to push.
You’re almost there!
When you’re in labour, remember that you have the superpower to bring a baby into this world! Get ready for what will probably be the most overwhelming day of your life!
