Beginning at about 38 weeks, you and your baby should start getting ready for labor. Exercising in a way that gets your baby into an optimal fetal position can make the labor process go smoother. The best way for your baby to be born is for the back of his head facing the front of your body, or occiput anterior. Babies can be born in different positions, but occiput anterior is ideal for reduced back pain and time in labor.
The key to these exercises is upright, forward leaning positions, with your knees lower than your pelvis. Avoid sitting in semi-reclined positions, like long car rides, and with crossed legs.
One of the best exercises to help baby move is a Cat-Cow position. This helps create a “hammock” in the front of your belly, which baby can rest in. For this Cat-Cow position it may be helpful for someone to read to you while you try it the first time:
Additional suggestion:
Use a yoga/birth ball: Sit on a yoga/birth ball instead of the couch or chairs when watching TV, in front of the computer, or eating.
***This is general information. Please speak to your health care provider about your unique health needs.
“I believe in continuity of care, which means that as your midwife, I’m here to support you throughout your pregnancy, birth, up until your baby is a toddler (really!) and beyond…”
Proud Practitioner with BeHerVillage. Create a Registry Here.
Copyright © 2022 Healthy Families Homebirth – Home is Where Family is Born | All Rights Reserved | Website by Cheryl Furer & Precy Onasa