NHS Suffolk and North East Essex - Labour and Birth Booklet

13 What to expect in labour and birth Positions for labour and birth During labour, it is good to stay as active as possible, and to try different positions. By doing this you will encourage your baby through the birth canal in the best position for birth, whilst also helping your own comfort and coping ability. Staying active and upright is also known to shorten the length of labour. You can try: • walking • standing with support from your birth partner • going up and down stairs • rocking/swaying • using a birthing ball • sitting upright or squatting • all fours position (on your hands and knees) or kneeling • lying on your side, supported by pillows (when you want to rest). During birth, your midwife will support you to try different positions. It is important to listen to your body, and try whatever feels right for you. The positions you can adopt may depend on whether you’ve chosen to have a water birth, or if you have an epidural. For more information visit: • Baby Centre www.babycentre.co.uk/l25025610/16-birthing-positions-for-labour- images • Tommy’s www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/labour-birth/movement-and- positions-during-labour