Squatting usually takes place faster than other types of delivery, as the squatting position widens the pelvis more than the other positions, in addition to relaxing the muscles in the region, facilitating the baby's exit.
This delivery is only suitable for women who have had a healthy pregnancy and the baby is turned upside down. Another advantage of squatting is that it can be performed under the effect of epidural anesthesia and the presence of a companion of your choice, either a partner or a doula.
Pregnant women who wish to have a squatting delivery should invest in this position during pregnancy, so that the muscles and hips can get used to and gradually widen, to facilitate labor.
Advantages of squatting
The main advantages of squatting are:
- Shorter labor time as it is aided by gravity; Ability to move freely during labor; Less pain during delivery; Less trauma to the perineum; Better use of the strength that is made to leave the baby; Better blood circulation in the uterus and placenta allowing greater performance of both uterine contractions and the baby's health.
In addition, the squatting position promotes greater expansion of the pelvis, making the baby come out more easily.
Contraindications for squatting
Squatting is contraindicated if:
- Baby that does not have the head down; Do not reach 10 centimeters of dilation of the birth canal; Pregnancy at risk or high risk; Baby too large (more than 4 kg); Use of spinal anesthesia, which blocks the movement of the legs, not allowing the woman to adopt the squatting position.
For this delivery to be performed successfully it is important that the woman is healthy, has not had pregnancy-related illnesses, has her legs strengthened enough and has good flexibility so that the position can be easily supported. In addition, it is recommended that the woman be anesthetized with a type of epidural anesthesia that allows her to move her legs.
