Women are not naturally adapted to give birth on their backs, but this method of childbirth became standard for men's convenience
For centuries, women gave birth on their knees, squatting, or using special birthing chairs. In these positions, physiology and gravity aid childbirth. Why then has modern medicine shifted this process to a horizontal plane?
Photo: Manop Phimsit / Vecteezy
Researchers note that giving birth lying down is a relatively new phenomenon. It only spread over the last 300-400 years. As explained by the BBC, the roots of this phenomenon trace back to the decision of one Frenchman who believed that such a method would be more convenient – for men.
The first to popularize this practice was the French physician François Mauriceau. In his 1668 book, he advised delivering in bed, claiming it was more convenient and avoided additional discomfort. Mauriceau viewed pregnancy as a state close to illness.
There is another version: the change in position may have been influenced by King Louis XIV of France. According to some studies, the monarch enjoyed observing the moment of birth. However, vertical postures and traditional birthing chairs obstructed his view. To satisfy the royal curiosity, the woman's position was changed to a semi-reclining one.
Since the behavior of autocrats was copied by their entourage and society – much like Lukashenka's current fascination with hockey and firewood – the inconvenient birthing posture gradually became the norm, even though, as researchers note, no other biological species lies down at such a critical moment.
What science says
Modern science unequivocally supports vertical births. A squatting position increases the pelvic diameter by at least 2.5 centimeters. Additionally, gravity works for the mother, not against her. When a woman lies on her back, the heavy uterus compresses the aorta, which can worsen blood flow and oxygen supply to the baby. If a woman is allowed to move freely, she instinctively leans forward, seeking support on her hands or knees.
A review of 25 studies involving more than 5,200 women showed that births in vertical and mobile positions reduce the risk of cesarean section, require less pain relief (e.g., epidural anesthesia), and decrease the number of cases where newborns need intensive care.
It is also noted that births in such positions are usually shorter in duration, and contractions are more effective. This also reduces the likelihood of forceps use or episiotomy (incisions).
The only caveat concerns high-risk groups: some data indicate a potential for greater blood loss in a vertical position, therefore close monitoring is required in such cases.
The environment also plays an important role. A 2011 study showed that in birthing centers equipped with balls, chairs, and other aids, 82% of women choose vertical positions. In conventional hospitals, where the main element is the bed, only 25% of women give birth in such positions.
Today, the situation is gradually changing. For example, British national guidelines (NICE) now advise doctors to discourage women from lying on their backs during pushing and to encourage any other position the mother finds comfortable.
However, according to experts, complete change requires not only medical reform but also education. Popular culture – cinema and television – still portrays women in labor as passive patients, chained to monitors. Knowledge that childbirth is an active process empowers women and gives them the right to choose what their own body tells them.
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