Should I lie flat or on my side during labor contractions?

For women who are about to give birth, the pain and contractions will be particularly painful. No matter they are lying on their stomach or lying down, they will feel very uncomfortable, and even cannot stand up. Therefore, women who are about to give birth should choose to lie on their side as much as possible, and try not to lie flat on their backs, because the symptoms of lying flat on their backs will be more severe. Lying on your side will feel more comfortable, and a small amount of activity can promote the opening of the uterus.

Turn labor pains into motivation for childbirth

The delivery of the fetus relies on the power of labor pains. Lying motionless is a very passive approach. You can use your brain to choose some postures to help promote delivery. Make good use of labor pains and make them a better driving force for childbirth.

You can keep changing your posture : Don’t lie down completely, try the posture that is most comfortable for you, such as sitting upright, cross-legged, etc. Moving can help with labor, so don't forget to move even if it's very painful. Don't move during the intervals between contractions. This is the time for the fetus to rest. Don't be anxious, just wait for the contractions to become stronger naturally.

Using gravity to deal with labor pains

Childbirth is a natural ability that every healthy woman possesses, and the power of nature can be used to help with childbirth. For example, relying on gravity is very effective. While waiting for delivery, standing, sitting on a chair, squatting, and holding up the upper body can promote uterine contraction and fetal birth. If the direction of the mother's posture is the same as the direction of gravity, it will save effort. You can also walk, squat, twist your waist, etc. within the range of your movements. Lying sideways or on your back will not compress the uterine blood vessels, but will increase blood flow to promote labor pains. Walking can help promote childbirth. Take a walk in the delivery hospital, try singing, and pace back and forth in the delivery room to refresh yourself. All of these will be more comfortable than sitting still.

After the pain intensifies

In order to give birth to the baby smoothly, mothers should move their bodies in time.

Sit with your arms around the back of the chair

Sit on the chair like you are riding a horse, with your legs apart, your hands around the backrest, and your head down. If the hospital has a rocking chair that can rock back and forth, it can relieve pain.

Sit cross-legged to open your joints

Put your feet together and your hands on your knees. This can not only relieve labor pains but also open up your bones and joints, allowing for a smooth birth of the baby.

Hug your husband

Let your husband hug you. Sit on your feet and hold your husband's head with your hands. It’s best if it’s someone important to you so you can relax.