Ideal Position of the Baby for Birth
If you’re having your first baby, you might have heard a lot of talk about the baby’s position nearing labor. You also might have heard about how the baby’s position can influence labor and make it easier or more difficult.
What Is The Ideal Position?
The optimal position of the baby is generally vertex or head down position. Ideally, the baby is on the left side, but the right side is acceptable.
We prioritize positioning the mom to help better position her baby. We encourage a side-lying position in labor, where the mom lies comfortably on her left or right side, often using pillows, to promote relaxation and allow the baby to get into a good position.
We believe physical activity during pregnancy is important for optimal baby positioning. A more sedentary lifestyle increases the chance of posterior positions.
Ways to be active during pregnancy to promote ideal positions
Staying active during pregnancy allows adequate movement of your baby inside your womb. This can encourage better positioning as you near your due date.
Here are some ways you can stay active during pregnancy:
- Pregnancy-friendly yoga
- Low-intensity workouts
- Swimming
- Walking
- Low-intensity pilates
What are ways to help your baby get into the ideal position?
If your baby is breech or not in a head-down position before 34 weeks, there is no need to worry since babies tend to position themselves after that. However, if you’re nearing term and worried about positioning your baby in the vertex position, here are some things you can try:
- Try a Pelvic Tilt: lay flat with your back on a flat surface. Slowly thrust your hips upward and hold that position for as long as you can. Discontinue this if you feel uncomfortable or dizzy
- Visit a chiropractor for the Webster Technique that helps realign your baby with the pelvis
- Keep yourself hydrated since this ensures adequate liquid for your baby to move around in
Consult your healthcare provider before you try any of these methods. They might have better suggestions or interventions that can effectively help reposition your baby.