The Knee-Chest Position

What is the knee-chest position?

The knee-chest position is a variation of the hands and knees position in which the butt is higher than the shoulders.

Why does the knee-chest position work?

The hands and knees position uses gravity to rotate the baby out of a posterior position (causes back labor).

How do I do it?

Begin by getting into a hands and knees position. Slowly lower your shoulders to the floor, resting your head in a comfortable position.

Some sample knee-chest techniques:

Place a rebozo (long scarf), under the mothers belly before she moves into the knee-chest position. Once she is in the knee-chest position, pull up on both ends of the rebozo to relive some of the weight being supported by the mother's legs.

Have the mother get into the knee-chest position, then have her move her knees further apart, causing the butt to lower slightly while the pelvis widens. The mother should look like she is in a frog position. Keeping the butt higher than the shoulders while widening the pelvis may give the baby more room to turn.

While the mother is in the knee-chest position, rub her lower back to relieve some of the pressure.

What would you like next?

Read some Sample Birth Plans and get information to help put your birth plan together.

Learn how exercise in pregnancy can shorten your labor.

Learn ways to handle Childbirth Challenges.

Discover the secrets of being emotionally prepared for labor.

Find easy meal ideas.