Chapter 10: Giving good care in labor and birth
Change position every hour
Help the woman move during labor. She can squat, sit, kneel, or take other
positions. All these positions are good. Changing positions helps the cervix open
more evenly.
Standing and walking can make labor go faster. Swaying, rocking, or even
dancing can help her body to relax.
The mother should NOT lie flat on her
back. This squeezes shut the vessels that bring
blood to the baby and mother.
NO!
It is OK for her to lie on her side with a pad
between her legs (see pictures above), or on her back with her upper body
propped up — as long as she changes position at least every hour.
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A Book for Midwives (2010)