September 14, 2022 | by: Ken McGee, PT, DPT
As the saying goes, if you don’t know your options then you don’t have options. This is certainly true when it comes to pushing during childbirth in the United States and many other places across the globe. Birthing people are often encouraged to hold their breath and sustain a pushing effort for ten seconds, repeated three times per contraction. However, recent evidence points to the alternative option of breathing during pushing efforts as being better protective of the pelvic floor. Childbirth educators can support pregnant families by informing them of the benefits of breathing during pushing. This is another post in the The Body in Birth Series.
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June 09, 2021 | by: Sharon Muza, BS, LCCE, FACCE, CD/BDT(DONA), CLE
Earlier this week I had the opportunity to support doula clients as they welcomed their baby in a local hospital. I found this sign placed prominently on the baby warming station and simply loved everything that it represents. At times, it is anticipated that a baby may need a little bit of additional assistance immediately after birth and a NICU team is called to be there as the baby is born. This team can consist of several clinicians including respiratory therapists, NICU nurses and physicians, nurse practitioners, anesthesiologists and more, all dedicated to support the newborn in the moments after birth.
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January 07, 2020 | by: Mindy Cockeram, LCCE
It may be seem counterintuitive but pushing with knees together when baby is on the way out of the pelvis is proving to be an effective and efficient method of pushing. Educators should consider introducing this concept in their classes in order to help families to have an easier second stage of labor. Mindy Cockeram takes a look at why this works!
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October 09, 2018 | by: Sharon Muza, BS, LCCE, FACCE, CD/BDT(DONA), CLE
A new study suggests there is no need to labor down with an epidural and supports immediate pushing after complete dilation with no change in cesarean rates or need for forceps or vacuums, with some benefits to parent and baby.
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November 14, 2017 | by: Sharon Muza, BS, LCCE, FACCE, CD/BDT(DONA), CLE
Five tips for childbirth educators on teaching how to effectively push a baby out from Kathleen Donahoe, COO and co-owner of Oh Baby! Fitness. Learn how to help your students feel strong and confident when they get to the pushing phase.
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