Giving Birth On All Fours, pt 1 – The Research.

5 Jan 2010

While most people — including myself — have been conditioned (by television) to believe that all deliveries are done on the bed with legs propped up and the Doctor’s head between her thighs, there are certainly more ways than this to bring new life to this world.

I was reading a discussion from the UK Midwifery Archives on this topic, where a midwife feedback that a husband told his friends and family that his wife had given birth “like a cow”. Don’t you dare laugh! *makes evil eye*

Before you decide to make a joke out of it, you might just think otherwise after reading that this position is kinder to Mommy and Baby. Especially if you are the one doing the pushing

Why is this a Better Position?

Less pain in labour and birth

Have shorter labours and pushing times

Less Shoulder Dystocia — baby’s shoulders get stuck in the pelvis

Fewer Perineal Tears — space between the vagina and rectum stretches to make room for baby’s head and shoulders

Allows the pelvis to open 1-2cm, making adequate room for even a large baby to pass through

Benefits to Giving Birth on Hands & Knees

Fewer maternal and infant injuries

Fewer infant deaths related to Shoulder Dystocia

Less painful and more efficient contractions

Impressive rate of rotating Posterior babies to Anterior within 10 minutes

Shorter Labour

Decrease risk of both instrumental and Cesarean deliveries

Read this Article

After finding out more about this amazing yet simplistic position, I am certain that I will want to deliver in it. The only concern now is, will Dr Tan sign my Birth Plan?

I know I cannot control the unforeseen on that day itself, for example: I could be very tired after endless hours of contraction pain in 1st Stage Labour, so I cannot get into position — I will pray to God for strength and Mother Mary for her intercession. She delivered Jesus alone, 2000 years ago! *admiration*

If given the chance, will you try this position too? My review in Part 2 (coming in March!).