Is it true that the squatting position is the best technique?

Childbirth is a stressful moment as well as eagerly awaited by pregnant women. Every woman would want to have a comfortable labor experience and position. Although most women give birth lying down, it turns out that the squatting position is believed to be the best position for labor. Why is that? What are the benefits and risks of squatting? Find out through the following reviews.

Benefits of giving birth in a squat position

Squat or delivery positionsquattingis a great way to get a quick and easy labor. Because by squatting, the position of the uterus and pelvis will tilt forward. This will make it easier for the baby to enter the birth canal and be ready for the second phase of labor, aka the pushing phase.

Alana Bibeau, Ph.D, a doula and member of the Rhode Island Birth Network Board of Trustess, told Parents that squatting can increase the mother's pelvic diameter by 20 to 30 percent. When the diameter of the mother's pelvis widens, labor contractions will come more intense and are a sign that the baby will be born in the near future.

In addition, the squatting position can also increase the amount of oxygen in the uterine muscles so that the pain during childbirth is reduced. In fact, this position can lower the risk of an episiotomy or vaginal scissors. The reason is, squatting can make the pelvic floor muscles more stretched and relaxed, making it easier for the baby to get out of the vagina.

While the squatting position is good, consider the risks

Basically, no birthing position is perfect without risks. Although it is believed to be the best birthing position, the squatting position also holds a number of risks that pregnant women should consider.

When pregnant women squat or squatting, the upper limb will push more downwards. This condition can cause blood vessels in the hips, knees, and ankles to become blocked. As a result, pregnant women tend to feel uncomfortable when giving birth in a squatting position.

Well, this is where the role of the husband and the doula (childbirth companion) to help hold your body while squatting. This way, you can focus more on breathing techniques while conserving energy to deal with labor.

This birthing position also needs good preparation

Basically, whatever birth position you choose will have to be adapted to your own body's abilities. If you still want to give birth in a squatting position, be sure to always consult with your obstetrician or midwife first.

Because again, this is influenced by the condition of your body and the baby in the womb, whether you are ready or not to go through the labor process in a squatting position. If the doctor gives the green light, the doctor may give you a special trick so that your labor will run smoothly.

Now doulas and the medical team have encouraged many women to squat a lot since pregnancy. It is intended that the mother's footsteps are getting stronger when pushing so as to speed up the labor process.

If necessary, enlist the help of a doula who master the techniques of giving birth comfortably. So no matter what birthing position you choose, be sure to always understand your abilities and comfort. Thus, labor will be less traumatic and progress more calmly.