The desire to give birth sitting down is certainly not a lazy option! When it comes to birth positions, sitting (not semi-sitting) is a good second best to squatting for the second stage of labour. Sitting also has some benefits for the first stage of labour, such as speeding labour up, and offering some relief for those experiencing back labour, both factors that will help you to have the natural birth you want.
You can use any type of chair, from a kitchen chair, to a rocking chair. Many hospitals and birth centers have chairs available for you to use in each labor and birth room.
The benefits of sitting in a chair are also available if you sit backwards. The added benefit is that you can lean forward. This can help take some pressure off of your back. It also makes your back available for your husband, doula or nurse to rub or massage. This is particularly helpful if you are experiencing back labor or if your baby is occiput posterior (OP) or face up.
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