How to Do an Open Knee Chest Position in Labor

Doing an open knee-chest position in early labor is a great way to reposition a baby that is presenting as occiput posterior (OP). This position generally means that the baby's occiput (back of head) is facing towards your back. Doing an open knee chest position during early labor may help to swing the baby around into a more favorable position for birth. The following steps will tell you how to do an open knee-chest position.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get down into a hands and knees position. Hands should be placed directly under the shoulders and the knees should be placed underneath the hips.

2. Slightly move your knees backward and outward. Lower your chest to the floor so that it is essentially flat.

3. Be sure that your backside is in the air and that your knees are slightly behind your backside.

4. If you have a partner, he can get down on the floor in front of you and place his forearms underneath your shoulders so that you feel more supported.

5. Stay in this position through a few contractions (or 10 to 20 minutes). This is usually enough time to help baby out of an incorrect position.

Tips & Warnings

• This position is also very good if your water ruptures and you have a prolapsed cord.
• It may reduce the pressure on a swollen or unevenly dilated cervix.
• Do not use this position towards the end of your labor. It is only to be used in early labor.

[jull14]

on 3/17/2009 Hello Mrs. Gonzales, I love this article, and it is very informative. Thanks for sharing with me.5*

[smilesatme1]

on 3/14/2009 I never heard of this position. I am not sure if I can do this if ever--Good tips Heidi.

[thebirthauthor]

on 3/3/2009 Great! This position works very well for posterior babies and is effective if done early enought! Definately feel vindicated - you listened to that mothering instinctual feeling - bravo, love!

[athenenoctua]

on 3/3/2009 I did this! I did! Didn't even know what I was doing. My body said "you should be in this position" and the baby turned out of posterior position. Whew. *feels vindicated* 5*