A Guide to Labour Positions & Comfort Measures

By Llamamma Mothercare

Every labour is unique. Some births move quickly, others unfold slowly over many hours. What’s universal, however, is that the way a birthing person moves and positions themselves can strongly influence both comfort and progress. Movement is not just about “doing something” — it’s about working with your body and baby to find balance, relieve discomfort, and open the pelvis at just the right times.

Movement is medicine in labour.

Positions help:

• Encourage baby’s rotation and descent through the pelvis

• Release tension in ligaments and muscles

• Relieve pain and pressure

• Promote relaxation and confidence

This guide walks through labour stages — from early labour through pushing — with positions and comfort measures you (and your support team) can use. Think of these as tools in your birth toolbox: you don’t need every single one, but having options gives you confidence when the path twists and turns.

Early Labour: Preparing the Body & Balancing the Uterus

In early labour, contractions are usually mild to moderate, and the cervix is just beginning to open. The focus here is to:

• Balance uterine ligaments (so the uterus can contract effectively)

• Open the pelvic inlet (top of the pelvis)

• Soften and relax the psoas muscles (deep hip muscles that often tighten under stress)

Helpful Positions & Movements:

• Forward Leaning Inversion – Relieves tension on uterine ligaments, encouraging optimal fetal position.

• Standing Psoas Release – A gentle stretch that makes space for baby to enter the pelvis.

• Abdominal Lift & Tuck – Lifts the belly during a contraction, helping baby’s head press evenly on the cervix.

• Butterfly Sit – A restful seated position that widens the pelvic inlet.

• Side Lying Release – Targets deep pelvic muscles, often creating space for baby to engage.

Comfort Tips:

• Gentle walking, swaying, or dancing with a partner

• A warm bath or shower for relaxation

• Resting or napping (conserving energy is key!)

• Sharing intimacy, cuddling, or even laughter — all of which release oxytocin and help labour progress

Doula’s Note: Early labour is often when families wonder “is this it?” Remember: there’s no rush. Supporting relaxation and balance here lays the foundation for smoother active labour.

Active Labour: Rocking Baby Through the Mid-Pelvis

Once contractions strengthen and become regular, baby moves into the mid-pelvis. This part of labour is often called “the work” because intensity builds. Here, pelvic mobility and asymmetrical movements are powerful tools.

Helpful Positions & Movements:

• Side Lunges – Create space in one side of the pelvis if baby needs more room.

• Dip the Hip – Rhythmic hip dips can help baby rotate and descend.

• Stair Climbing (two steps at a time if possible) – Adds natural pelvic tilt and encourages rotation.

• Open Knee Chest – A forward position that eases pressure and helps with rotation.

• Shake the Apple Tree (gentle jiggling of thighs) – Releases pelvic tension and eases pain.

• Belly Sifting (using a scarf or rebozo) – Relaxes ligaments and can reposition a baby who isn’t aligned.

Comfort Measures:

• Counter pressure or double hip squeezes

• Massage, light touch, or pressure points

• Rhythmic movements (slow dancing, rocking, swaying)

• Dimming the lights or creating a cozy, safe atmosphere

Doula’s Note: This is often when a birthing person feels the strongest intensity. Encouragement, breathing cues, and hands-on comfort can help them stay grounded.

The Pushing Stage: Widening the Outlet

As baby descends to the outlet (bottom of the pelvis), positions that free the sacrum and open space front-to-back or side-to-side are most helpful. The key here is variety and gravity.

Helpful Positions:

• Squatting (supported or using bars/partners) – Opens the pelvic outlet up to 30% more.

• Forward Leaning / Hands & Knees – Shifts the sacrum back and makes room.

• Side Lying – Especially useful with an epidural; keeps hips open and pelvis relaxed.

• Side Lunge Push – Helpful for babies with head tilts (asynclitism) or when a cervical lip is present.

• Walcher’s Position (hips on edge of bed, legs dangling) – Creates more space in the inlet for a baby who is stuck.

Tips for Progress:

• Rotate positions every 20–30 minutes if baby isn’t moving down.

• Keep knees lower than ankles, opening the pelvis.

• Use peanut balls, scarves, or partner support to maintain variety.

Doula’s Note: Pushing can be emotional as well as physical. Gentle coaching, affirmation, and encouragement help the birthing person trust their body and push effectively.

Comfort Measures Throughout Labour

Beyond positions, these simple, evidence-based tools can bring relief at any stage:

• Hip Squeeze – Relieves pressure and opens space in the pelvis.

• Counter Pressure – Firm hand at the sacrum during contractions for back labour.

• Massage & Acupressure Points – Eases tension and stimulates oxytocin release.

• Peanut Ball – Keeps pelvis open during rest or with an epidural.

• Head Compression – Gentle grounding pressure to reduce overwhelm.

• Slow Dancing or Rocking with Partner – Boosts oxytocin, keeps movements gentle, rhythmic, and intimate.

Many of these are epidural-friendly and can be adapted with hospital tools or doula/partner support.

Quick Reference: What To Do When…

• Baby isn’t descending: try inversions, belly sifting, side lying release, or toilet sitting.

• Contractions stall: intimacy, nipple stimulation, movement, or laughter can restart progress.

• Back labour: counter pressure, hip squeezes, or side-lying release are most effective.

• Fear or tension sets in: dim lights, soothing music, affirmations, or sensory breaks (sunglasses, blindfold, essential oils).

Final Note

Labour positions are tools, not rules. The most important thing is listening to your body and following your instincts. Your support team — doulas, partners, providers — are there to help you feel safe and confident as you navigate this journey.

Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider before trying new movements. Stop any position that causes pain, dizziness, or distress.

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