Outkast & Movement During Labor
“I like the way you move, dun nuh nuh.”
-OutKast (and your baby during labor…probably)
Let’s talk about movement during labor.
When it comes to comfort measures and navigating your labor, M O V E M E N T is the name of the game! Here’s why it’s the labor MVP.
-stimulates receptors in brain that decrease pain perception
-helps release endorphins
-helps labor progress
-creates space in pelvis
-may decrease length of labor
-decreases need for pain medication
-improves sense of control
As you contract, your baby is lowering their way on down through your pelvic outlet. So what can you do to help them along towards optimal positioning in your pelvis and birth canal and ease the sensations of your contractions?
Get moving!
Movement and position changes during labor help create space in your pelvis for baby to make their way down and help to decrease pain and encourage labor along.
WIN, WIN, WIN.
Generally, your body will naturally guide you to movement that feels good during labor, but here are some other options to consider:
Walking
Hand and knees
Swaying back and forth
Stand and lean
Lunging with one foot up on a sturdy surface
Swaying or sitting on a birthing ball
Side-lying
There may be limitations to your movement depending on use of IVs, epidurals, or continuous fetal monitoring, but rest assured, there are still movements and positions you can utilize during your labor.
So keep moving that body during labor!
Your laboring self and your soon-to-be met baby will thank you.