About this episode
Have you ever thought about what position you would like to use to give birth? Most movies and television series depict birthing positions such as back-lying or semi-sitting in bed. But many people, if given the choice, instinctively choose a more upright position for birthing their baby—such as hands-and-knees, squatting, or kneeling. What is the evidence on the different positions that can be used to help push your baby out? And why are the lying or semi-sitting positions so frequently recommended (or even required) in hospital settings? Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker, the founder of Evidence Based Birth, as we explore in-depth evidence on this topic! To learn more about the research on this topic, and to download a free 1-page handout, visit ebbirth.com/birthingpositions. This podcast is also posted on our YouTube channel in case you want to access the video. Content Note: perineal tears, the lithotomy position, forceps and vacuum deliveries, and obstetric violence related to being coerced or forced to push and deliver on your back. Resources: For a full list of scientific references, see the blog post that goes along with this episode Check out our Signature Article and download our 1-page handout... Evidence on: Birthing Positions Other relevant episodes: EBB 196: Pelvic Biomechanics and Movement in Labor EBB 221: Birthing Positions and Tried-and-True Midwifery Practices EBB Podcast Series on Protecting the Perineum EBB 224: Failure to Progress or Failure to Wait To listen to stories from parents who switched providers after learning the evidence, visit EBB Podcast episodes # 127 , 186 , 208 , 223 , and 231 For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth, visit www.ebbirth.com . Find us on: TikTok ( https://www.tiktok.com/@ebbirth ) Instagram ( https://www.instagram.com/ebbirth/ ), and Pinterest ( https://www.pinterest.com/ebbirth/ ). Ready to get involved? Check out our Professional membership (including scholarship options) ( https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ ). Find an EBB Instructor here ( https://evidencebasedbirth.com/find-an-instructor-parents/ ), Click here ( https://evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirth-class/ ) to learn more about the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class.