Mobility and Positioning in Labor

I want to explain why moving during labor and trying different positions can make such a big difference in comfort and in how your labor progresses. When you move your body, you help your baby move down into the pelvis. Gravity works in your favor when you are upright, and that can help labor continue at a steady pace. Even small changes like shifting your weight, rocking your hips, or standing and leaning forward can ease pressure and make contractions feel more manageable.

Different positions change how your pelvis opens, and that can help the baby rotate into a better position. Upright positions like standing, slow walking, swaying, or sitting on the edge of the bed allow the baby to drop lower. Forward leaning positions, such as leaning over the bed or a partner’s shoulders, take pressure off your back and can reduce the intensity of contractions. Many women also like using a birthing ball because it supports the hips, allows smooth rocking movements, and gives the lower back a break. The hands and knees position is especially helpful if you have back labor or if the baby needs help turning into an easier position for birth. These positions are simple, but they are powerful tools for both comfort and progress.

Monitoring and epidural use can affect how much you can move, but they do not eliminate your options. If you are on intermittent monitoring, you can usually walk, stand, or use the ball freely. If continuous monitoring is needed, we can often adjust the straps or the wireless monitors so you can still change positions. With an epidural, you will not be able to walk because your legs will feel heavy or numb, but you can still move with help. We can help you use side-lying positions, supported sitting, or a peanut ball between your knees to keep your pelvis open. These methods are very effective for helping the baby descend even when you are not able to stand or walk.

My goal is to help you stay as comfortable and mobile as possible because movement is one of the safest and most natural ways to support your labor. We will work together to find the positions that feel right for you, and I will guide you as your labor changes. You do not have to remember every option. I will help you try different approaches until we find what works best for your body and your baby.