How to Use a Supported Squat Position With an Epidural

Moms who choose an epidural in labor often get stuck in bed. If the epidural works properly, your bottom half (from your waist to your toes) is usually too numb to squat or stand. However, you can do a supported squat position on the bed by adjusting the bed height and using two support people. This will enable you to use gravity even though you won't have complete mobility. Here is how to do it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Two support people

1. Have a support person stand on each side of you in bed.
2. Lower the entire bed to the lowest setting possible. This will make it easier for the support people.
3. For extra support, put the back of the bed to a semi-straight position so that you can use it to lean back on.
4. The support person on your left should be standing next to you and slide his right arm under your left arm and around your waist. Your left arm should be resting around the top of his shoulders.
5. The support person on your right should be standing next to you and slide her left arm under your right arm and around your waist. Your right arm should be resting around the top of her shoulders.
6. Slowly have your support people lift you up and assist you by sliding your legs and feet underneath you while you are using the back of the bed to support the majority of your weight.
7. Your support people can help keep you balanced while you are in a supported squat. This position can help bring baby down further into the pelvis and bring an urge to push if there hasn't yet been one.
8. When you are ready to move out of the squat, have your support people help you bring your legs and feet out from under you while slowly lowering your bottom back on the bed.

Tips & Warnings

• You should check with your doctor before moving around after having an epidural administered.
• This position generally works when you are still able to feel some sensation in your legs and feet.