Does Pushing On Your Back Increase Your Chances of Tearing in Childbirth?

When it comes to pushing your baby out, it should be your choice which position you want to be in for the final moments of labor. And any pregnant person who does 10 seconds of research will quickly learn that pushing on your back (even if you have an epidural) can lead to more severe tearing and long term trauma to your pelvic floor (no thank you!!!). 

And if you think about it, it makes sense. Upright positions where you can use gravity and the tailbone isn’t in the way of the pelvic outlet can create more space and force to get your baby safely into your arms. Even sidelying pushing positions (a great option with an epidural) will ensure tailbone compression isn’t creating an unnecessary barrier to the finish line! 

So why do providers want you to push on your back? 

Because it’s easier for them! And they have more control. And it’s how they were taught. 

Because of this, many providers don’t like when you advocate for alternative birthing positions. 

This is a generalization, of course, but you would be surprised how many providers are so sneaky in those final minutes before your baby is born. I see it all the time.

If you feel strongly about not pushing on your back, have a plan with your birth team, and better yet, hire a Doula! With a Doula advocating for your birth plan, you will not only be supported with alternative positions and suggestions, but you will have someone by your side, enduring the communication and boundary setting, so all you have to focus on is meeting your baby.

Another tip I have is to have lots of conversations with your provider ahead of time, and make sure your preferences can be heard, seen and respected. I get excited when I experience a medical provider empowering a birthing person and allowing them to trust their body during this very intimate and for many, new experience. Are you local to San Diego? Ask me for a provider referral and I'll point you towards the midwives and OBGYN's who are supportive of upright birthing positions! 

There is no need to create more stress and fear around birth, but we have learned after a lot of studying and trial and error, that there are some seriously supportive positions that can help birthing people avoid tearing and other possible interventions or outcomes. You deserve an empowered birth based on the latest evidence and research! 

For more birth Doula tips follow @doulakellyrae