health
Women are not designed to give birth lying on their backs, so why do they?
For thousands of years, women around the world have given birth in an upright position – whether kneeling like Cleopatra, using birthing chairs, or squatting.
TL;DR
- Historically, women globally gave birth in upright positions such as kneeling, squatting, or using birthing chairs.
- Upright positions leverage gravity, potentially increasing pelvic diameter and easing labor.
- The practice of lying on the back during childbirth is a relatively modern phenomenon, gaining prevalence in the last 300-400 years.
- Historical figures like François Mauriceau and potentially King Louis XIV are associated with promoting the supine position, partly due to viewing childbirth as an illness and for the convenience of male physicians.
- Upright birthing positions are associated with reduced risks of Cesarean sections, less need for epidural anesthesia, and fewer neonatal admissions.
- Benefits of upright labor include more effective contractions, less maternal pain, fewer instrumental deliveries, and better fetal oxygenation.
- Studies show women in birthing centers with supportive equipment are more likely to adopt upright positions compared to those in hospital settings with only a bed.