Table of Contents
There is no single position you must use throughout labour. Some people want to stand or move around; others need to rest on their side. Your preferences may change as labour progresses, and your midwife can help you find positions that suit your comfort and clinical needs.
It helps to discuss a few options before the birth, while keeping the plan flexible. Changing position may make you more comfortable, but it cannot guarantee a shorter labour or a particular type of birth.
Positions you can discuss with your midwife
The NHS guide to the stages of labour describes several options, including standing, kneeling, sitting, squatting and lying on your side. Being on your hands and knees may help if you have backache.
In early labour, you may want to move gently when you feel able, or rest if labour starts at night. There is no need to turn movement into an exercise challenge. Ask your midwife what support is available, particularly if you feel unsteady or are using pain relief.
What changes if you have an epidural?
An epidural can affect movement and sensation, so ask for help before changing position or getting up. Your maternity team will explain which movements are suitable for you.
For the second stage of labour, NICE guidance advises that lying flat on your back can lower blood pressure and reduce blood flow to the placenta. With an epidural, lying on your side may improve the chance of a spontaneous vaginal birth, although other comfortable positions remain options. Without an epidural, you should also be supported to use a comfortable position; upright positions and movement may be helpful.
Your team may recommend adjustments for monitoring or treatment. Ask them to explain what is needed and how they can help you remain comfortable.
Positioning is not a way to induce labour at home
The NHS states that there are no proven ways to start labour yourself at home. Walking, particular sex positions or online “natural induction” routines should not be presented as reliable methods.
If you are worried about going beyond your due date, discuss the choices with your midwife. They can explain monitoring, a membrane sweep or induction where appropriate. Avoid sex after your waters have broken because of the increased risk of infection.
When to call for help
Call your midwife or maternity unit urgently if your waters break, you have vaginal bleeding, your baby moves less than usual, or you think labour has started before 37 weeks. Also call urgently if a contraction lasts over two minutes or you have six or more in ten minutes. Do not wait until the next day. Call 111 if you cannot reach the maternity team. If you think the baby is coming now and have a strong urge to push, call 999.
See the NHS advice on signs of labour.
Information checked: 19 October 2026, using NHS and NICE guidance.
