Encouraging your baby into a good birth position
A mom-to-be’s positions and movement in the final weeks of pregnancy and in labor can influence her baby’s position in the uterus, and can make delivery of the baby easier.
Baby positions
Occiput anterior (OA) is the ideal position for your baby to lie in. It means he’s head down and facing your back, with his back on one side of the front of your tummy – the perfect position for making his way down the birth canal because he won’t have to turn.
Occiput posterior (OP) the baby is head down but facing your tummy. This position isn’t as good because if your baby doesn’t turn around during your labor he’ll be born face up (it’s often referred to as ‘sunny side up’!). This can result in a longer second stage (the stage when you push out your baby) and a higher risk of episiotomy or assisted delivery with forceps or a vacuum extraction cup.
Top tips for getting your baby into the best position
- Avoid slouching on chairs or the couch with your knees higher than your pelvis (so don’t put your feet up).
- Don’t cross your legs while sitting, as this reduces space in your pelvis.
- If you’re in the habit of eating in front of the TV, switch to sitting upright at the table.
- Watch TV kneeling on a cushion so you’re upright.
- Sit on a cushion in the car so your pelvis is tilted forward.
- Sleep on your side.
- Try yoga – many positions are good for encouraging your baby to move.
- Swimming can help as long as it’s breaststroke or the front crawl, but avoid backstroke as the baby may push back upon your blood vessels.
- If your baby is still posterior when you go into labor, try to have an active birth if possible. Walk, rock from side-to-side and march on the spot. It may look silly, but if you baby turns around into a better position, your labor will be shorter and less painful.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.