When a pregnant woman is lying on her back, the weight of the baby and uterus presses on the large blood vessels in the abdomen, which may reduce the blood supply to the baby and uterus, and decrease the strength of the contractions.
Putting a wedge under one hip can help reduce this effect. Little is known about the effect of upright versus lying down positions during the first stage on outcomes for babies or satisfaction for mothers.
In general, the woman should do whatever makes her feel most comfortable during the first stage, although she will need to take into account advice from her doctor or midwife regarding her and her child’s wellbeing, and the need for close monitoring.
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