Childbirth positions

Childbirth positions (or maternal birthing positions)^[1] are the physical postures that the pregnant mother may assume during the process of childbirth. They may also be referred to as delivery positions or labor positions.

In addition to the lithotomy position (on back with feet pulled up), still commonly used by many obstetricians, other positions are successfully used by midwives and traditional birth-attendants around the world. Engelmann's seminal 1882 work "Labor among primitive peoples" publicised the childbirth positions amongst primitive cultures to the Western world. They frequently use squatting, standing, kneeling and all fours positions, often in a sequence.^[2] They are referred to as upright birth positions.^[3]

Understanding the physical effects of each birthing position on the mother and baby is important. However, the psychological effects are crucial as well. Knowledge about birthing positions can help mothers choose the option they are most comfortable with. Having the agency and self-control to change positions in labor positively influences the mother's comfort and birthing experience, which increases the birthing outcome and her satisfaction with labor. ^[4]