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Maternal position during labor and birth: a reassessment.
JOGN Nursing; Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing
|September 1, 1980
Summary
Discovering alternative labor positions can enhance childbirth. Upright positions may lead to shorter, more comfortable labors compared to traditional methods, promoting physiological birth.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal Care
Background:
- The dorsal (lithotomy) position for labor and birth, though common, is a recent innovation with noted disadvantages.
- Alternative positions like lateral and upright postures are being explored for their impact on labor progression and maternal comfort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of alternative maternal positions during labor and birth.
- To compare the effects of lateral and upright positions against the traditional dorsal position on labor quality and duration.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on labor positions and their outcomes.
- Analysis of studies comparing uterine contraction quality, labor duration, and comfort levels across different positions.
Main Results:
- Lateral and upright positions demonstrated improved uterine contraction quality compared to the dorsal position.
- The upright position was associated with shorter and more comfortable labor experiences.
Conclusions:
- Women should be educated about the benefits of alternative labor positions and mobility.
- Encouraging and assisting women to adopt more physiological postures, particularly upright positions, can optimize labor and birth outcomes.