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Original poster

How flexible do you have to be for childbirth?

8 replies

usernamefeefifoe · 07/02/2015 18:04

Hi,

I am 31 weeks pregnant. I have severe arthritis in my hips so my flexibility and range of movement is extremely poor. If I am to stand up and spread my legs as wide as possible , my feet are about 12 inches apart. Midwifes don't seem that bothered but it is a worry to me. anyone else had any similar issues and get on fine??

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4hayters · 07/02/2015 18:35

Hello, I don't think I moved that much or had my legs completely spread. I gave birth to my second and third kneeling over a birthing ball,so knees a bit more than hip width apart. Would water help? It might ease movements a bit more. Good luck x

PotteringAlong · 07/02/2015 18:38

I also gave birth kneeling up (over the back of the bed in my case) and I don't remember my legs spread at all. Is a water birth an option?

bakingtins · 07/02/2015 18:41

Get it documented now what range of movement is possible/ comfortable. In the event you have epidural or spinal you do not want to be 'helped' into a position that that could do damage. They will be used to similar issues in women with spd.

GotToBeInItToWinIt · 07/02/2015 18:52

I barely moved in labour and didn't have my legs spread. Try and find a range positions you are comfortable in and make sure your birthing partner knows how to help you into those positions. Best of luck Smile

stargirl1701 · 07/02/2015 18:55

I gave birth in the pool and on a mat in a kneeling position. Legs no more than hip width apart.

You need to measure how wide is safe so it's in your notes in case of forceps, episiotomy or stitching after a tear.

Sonoma · 07/02/2015 19:06

Do you have a rheumatologist and what is his/her advice? What kind of arthritis do you have? I too would be concerned. Are you getting rheumatology management during your pregnancy? A natural birth can easily turn a corner where you run out of choices, unless you are fortunate and well looked after. I would get advice from a rheumatologist who has seen women birth babies with your condition.

GotToBeInItToWinIt · 07/02/2015 19:24

I barely moved in labour and didn't have my legs spread. Try and find a range positions you are comfortable in and make sure your birthing partner knows how to help you into those positions. Best of luck Smile

Nottoobadactually · 07/02/2015 20:01

Have sent you a pm

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