Biomechanics: Antenatal techniques to encourage a comfortable pregnancy and an easier labour.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Biomechanics |
| Department | Maternity |
| Author(s) | Maternity Team |
| Review Date | September 2021 |
| Next Review | September 2023 |
| Download | A5 Booklet PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
Antenatal techniques to encourage a comfortable pregnancy and an easier labour
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IMPORTANT: Please ensure you have someone to assist you with these techniques at home. |
These positions can be done from 28 weeks of pregnancy onwards.
Benefits of Side-Lying Release (SLR) and Forward-Leaning Inversion (FLI)
Side-Lying Release
Can be done up to 3 times a week
Increases pelvic mobility, leading to better sleep in pregnancy and less intense contractions in labour.
Makes room for your baby to turn into a better position, which then facilitates descent during labour.
Illustration from fairview.org
Forward-leaning Inversion
Can be done daily
Creates room in the uterus. Your baby can then use that space - with the natural pull of gravity - to snuggle into a more ideal position for birth.
How to do Side-Lying Release at Home
| Important: do this position on both sides |
Do three times a week
- Lay on your side on a hard flat surface, ensure your head is level on pillow and neck is straight.
- Get as close to the edge of the bed as possible, your bump should extend off the edge (approx. 2 inches between your hip and the edge of the bed).
- Ensure you are holding onto your helper / back of a chair with upper arm.
- Straighten your lower leg, toes flexed up towards the knee.
- Once in position, lift your upper leg and slowly let it hang off the bed floppy, in front of you.
- Your partner holds your hip in place with some pressure in order for your hips to be stacked.
- Hold this position for 2 - 3 minutes.
How to do Forward Leaning Inversion at Home
Do daily
- Kneel on the edge of the bed / sofa whilst supporting yourself with hands on either side.
- Slowly walk your hands towards the floor. Once you feel stable, lean on your forearms.
- Ensure your hands come together in the shape of a triangle and your elbows are pointing outwards.
- Tuck your chin towards your chest - ensure your head does not rest on the floor. Hold position for 30 - 40 seconds. Breath deep.
- Slowly get back up and end by resting back on the bed kneeling high for 1 minute. Keep breathing.
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Contraindications: do not do if you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or have been having some bleeding. |
