What are the Best Ways to Push?

Posted by Brenda Lane May 18, 2007

Mothers have long been told to begin pushing at 10 centimeters, hold their breath for 10 seconds at a time and bear down atleast 3 times with every contraction. This is called directed or Valsalva pushing.

More research, including the latest review in the Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health, explains that this type of pushing can have negative consequences including less oxygen to the baby and damage to the mother's bladder, pelvic floor and perinuem. Reviewers recommend a technique of "laboring down" which is described at length in my article on Pushing Techniques. You might also consider reviewing related articles on Perineal Massage and Avoiding Episiotomies.

Mothers and their labor partners should ask their providers about how they can avoid directed pushing methods and consider many benefits to the mother and baby by a slower approach to pushing.

Were you encouraged to use directed pushing? Did you think it was effective? Share your story on the forum.

Warmly,

Brenda