Woman Caught Squatting During Childbirth: Which Position Best Supports a Faster Delivery?
FNA NEWS, 3rd of September
A video of a woman giving birth while squatting has sparked reactions online, with many surprised to see a delivery taking place in an upright position.
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But there is actually nothing new about it.
Squatting is not a new birthing position
For centuries, women in different cultures have used upright positions such as squatting, kneeling and sitting during childbirth. In fact, the modern practice of having women deliver lying on their backs became common much later, particularly as medical interventions such as forceps and anaesthesia developed.
So, the viral video may look unusual to some people, but squatting during childbirth has a long history.
Can squatting make delivery faster?
Upright positions may allow gravity to assist the baby’s descent and can give some women greater freedom to move during labour.
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Research has also found that upright positions during the pushing stage may slightly shorten the duration of pushing and reduce the likelihood of assisted vaginal delivery and episiotomy. However, they may also be associated with a higher risk of some types of perineal tears and blood loss.
That means squatting is not a magic shortcut to a faster delivery.
According to the World Health Organization, women without an epidural can generally be supported to choose a position they find comfortable during labour, including upright positions, as long as the mother and baby’s safety are maintained.
So, which position is best?
There is no single position that is best for every woman.
Some may prefer squatting or standing, while others may feel more comfortable kneeling, sitting or lying on their side. The appropriate position can also depend on the stage of labour and the mother’s and baby’s condition.
Perhaps the biggest lesson from the viral video is not “squatting is better.”
It is that women should know they have options during childbirth.
And now the debate:
If you were in labour, would you rather squat, stand, kneel or lie down? 👀
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Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa.
Durowoju Abisola is a registered nurse, nurse writer and On-Air Correspondent at Fellow Nurses Africa (FNA), passionate about nursing leadership, health education and advocacy.
Through journalism, storytelling and content creation, she amplifies important conversations around nursing, healthcare and the experiences of nurses in Nigeria. She is committed to using her voice and professional knowledge to educate the public, challenge misconceptions and inspire the next generation of nurses.
