What to Know:
Research shows that restricting movement reduces the effectiveness of contractions, prolongs labor, and increases Pitocin use.
The WHO encourages freedom of position and movement and discourages the supine (back-lying) position during labor.
The ACOG encourages women to change position often.
You’ll need to stay in bed or have help moving if:
You’re having preterm labor.
You have severe pregnancy-induced hypertension.
You have epidural or spinal medication.
You have narcotic medication through an IV.
How to Avoid Unnecessary Use:
Discuss movement with your caregiver.
Find out if your birth site restricts walking and movement during labor.
Consider changing your birth site if it will restrict your movement.
Stay at home as long as possible, walking and moving freely.
Remember that walking, moving, and changing positions help your baby decend easier.
How to Keep Your Birthing as Normal as Possible if Your Movement is Restricted:
Stay at home as long as possible, walking, moving, and changing positions freely.
Change positions often in bed:
Move from side to side.
Sit on the side of the bed.
Kneel while leaning your head and shoulders against the raised head of the bed.
Lie in different directions; for example, move your head to the foot of the bed.
Squat while supported.
Get on all fours. (i.e. Hands and knees)
Remember that the more you move, the more efficient your birthing waves will be.