(L-R) Laurie Norris, Composite RN (MNB and L&D) and Candyce McKinnon, RPN (MNB) pose with the “peanut” ball, a tool used to mimic a squatting position for labouring individuals who have opted for an epidural.
There is no one position that is better than another during labour. It’s important to try different positions to help cope with pain and help labour along. Standing, walking, or swaying can help in early labour. Lunging, kneeling, and squatting are also helpful positions to work with your body as the baby descends in the pelvis.
We offer different forms of pain management during labour. Labouring individuals can choose between warm water immersion, birthing balls, entonox gas, sterile water injections, IV pain management, and epidurals.
Often, having an epidural can limit a person’s movement. At TBRHSC, we offer the use of “peanut” balls to mimic a squatting position for those who have opted for an epidural. This position effectively facilitates fetal rotation and descent during vaginal birth and allows a person the option of having an epidural but still being able to try different positions during labour.
No referrals are necessary to access care at the Maternity Centre.
For more information on the programs and services available visit our website at bit.ly/TBRHSC-Maternity-Centre.