LABOR POSITIONS FOR EASIER BIRTH | Open Each Level Of The Pelvis

Summary

In this informative video, childbirth educator Bridget emphasizes the importance of movement during labor to enhance comfort and efficiency. She introduces the BLT approach—Be Open, Lean Forward, Trust Gravity—to guide mothers in choosing effective labor positions. Bridget explains how various positions can facilitate baby engagement and movement through the pelvis, debunking common misconceptions about traditional birthing positions. By advocating for active participation and providing practical techniques, the video aims to empower expectant mothers for a healthier, easier birth experience. Viewers are encouraged to explore additional resources through her courses for further support.

Takeaways

• 😀 Labor is not a static event; movement is crucial for a more comfortable experience.
• 😀 Positions during labor should encourage openness, leaning forward, and trust in gravity.
• 😀 Understanding the anatomy of a birthing body can alleviate fears surrounding labor.
• 😀 A variety of labor positions should be explored to find what works best for each individual.
• 😀 The acronym BLT (Breathe, Lean forward, Trust gravity) can guide position choices during labor.
• 😀 Open positions help facilitate the baby's descent through the pelvis.
• 😀 Leaning forward rather than reclining supports better movement of the sacrum, enhancing labor efficiency.
• 😀 Asymmetrical movements are important for opening the mid pelvis as labor progresses.
• 😀 Incorrect leg positioning can narrow the pelvic outlet; keeping knees in and feet apart is beneficial.
• 😀 A range of techniques and positions are available to assist in achieving a healthier birth experience.

Q & A

What does the acronym BLT stand for in the context of labor positions?

BLT stands for Be Open, Lean Forward, and Trust Gravity, which are key principles to help optimize labor positions.

Why is it important to avoid lying on your back during labor?

Lying on your back can restrict the mobility of the sacrum and make it harder for the baby to descend through the pelvis, which can lead to a less efficient labor.

What are some effective positions to help open the top of the pelvis?

Effective positions include doing figure eights on a birth ball, hip circles, and pelvic tilts, which encourage the baby to engage and help open the pelvis.

How can asymmetrical movements aid in labor?

Asymmetrical movements, like the runner's position or kneeling lunge, help create space in the mid pelvis and facilitate the baby's descent.

What common misconception do people have about spreading their legs during labor?

Many believe that spreading their legs wide will create more openness in the pelvic outlet, but it actually narrows it; knees should stay in while feet are spread apart.

What is the role of controlled breathing during labor?

Controlled breathing aids in tissue relaxation, which helps the cervix and vaginal tissues to stretch and open more effectively during labor.

Can the positions discussed be used before labor starts?

Yes, these positions can be practiced during pregnancy or early labor to help the baby engage in the pelvis and prepare for labor.

What resources does Bridget offer for learning more about labor positions?

Bridget offers a full 'Built to Birth' course and a free mini birth class, both of which include various labor positions and techniques.

How does trusting gravity assist during labor?

Trusting gravity involves using upright positions that allow gravity to assist in guiding the baby down the birth canal, making labor more efficient.

Why is movement crucial during labor?

Movement allows for position changes that encourage pelvic openness, making it easier for the baby to move through the birth canal and promoting a smoother labor process.