Relaxation techniques used with controlled breathing will offer you better control during your labor and delivery. The ability to relax will conserve energy throughout the first stage of labor. Consciously relaxing between contractions makes the breaks more restful. You will also find more strength for the second (pushing) stage of labor.
It is very important to get into a comfortable position. If you're well prepared and practice different postures and positions for labor during pregnancy, you will instinctively be able to use these during childbirth. Explore various positions during pregnancy and change positions as often as necessary when you are in labor.
Throne Position: Semi-sitting allows you to rest without laying on your back and while still using gravity to encourage baby to descend. Semi-sitting, which is also sometimes called "throne sitting" is done with the help of a nurse who can modify the bed to position it more like a chair. This is also another way to use the bed while being on the monitors. Opening your legs butterfly style (as pictured) will help keep your pelvis opening as wide as possible, which gives baby the most room to keep wiggling down. This position can also be used with an epidural. This position may not be ideal for those experiencing back pain/"back labor."
Side Lying: If you're going to lay down in a hospital bed, it's ideal to lay on your side, as this is more comfortable with contractions, and allows you to position yourself in such a way to keep your pelvic opening wide, like shown in the picture with a peanut ball (stacked pillows also works well). This position is compatible with having an epidural and can work well with monitors in place. This position also allows you to rest, and gives access to your back for massage or counter pressure from a support person or doula.
Hands and Knees: Hands and knees is also a gravity neutral position. It is a great position to help get a break from the intensity of contractions. It also works well for turning a posterior baby. If your baby is posterior or you are experiencing back labor, this position can be comforting. It allows your doula or husband to massage your back or apply counter pressure to help you be more comfortable. You can also use this position to give birth.
Birth Ball: Laboring upright is a wonderful way to help baby descend into the birth canal because it works with gravity. Many women can’t labor laying down and must be sitting or standing. The birth ball allows mom to sit upright while giving her a more comfortable place to sit besides a chair. The rounding of the ball gives a little soft pressure during labor but is also very forgiving and bends to fit your bottom.
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