Unlocking the Potential of the Flying Cowgirl Position in Labour

The Flying Cowgirl

As a Body Ready Method Pro, I’m excited to share with you one of the most effective and comfortable labour positions: the Flying Cowgirl. This position not only provides much-needed rest but also offers significant anatomical benefits, aiding in the progression of labour.

What is the Flying Cowgirl Position? The Flying Cowgirl position involves resting on one side with the hips in exaggerated extension and the knees widely positioned around a supportive device, such as a large pillow or a peanut ball. This positioning is particularly beneficial during early labour or when the baby needs to engage into the pelvis.

Anatomical Benefits of the Flying Cowgirl Position:

1. Sacral Counternutation: One of the key benefits of the Flying Cowgirl position is its ability to facilitate sacral counternutation. This occurs when the top of the sacrum tips back at the SI joint, moving the sacral promontory farther away from the pubic bone. This movement increases the anterior-posterior (A-P) diameter of the pelvic inlet, creating more space for the baby to engage. Additionally, the bottom of the sacrum and coccyx move closer to the pubic bone, reducing space in the pelvic outlet. This dynamic adjustment is crucial in optimizing the baby’s descent.

2. Iliac External Rotation: Another significant motion facilitated by the Flying Cowgirl position is iliac external rotation. When the upper leg moves into external rotation, it causes the iliac bones to rotate externally. This increases the side-to-side space in the pelvic inlet while reducing space in the pelvic outlet. This adjustment helps in accommodating the baby’s head more comfortably within the pelvis.

Why Choose the Flying Cowgirl Position? The combination of sacral counternutation and iliac external rotation makes the Flying Cowgirl position highly effective in aiding the baby’s engagement during early labour. By creating more space in the pelvic inlet, this position promotes a smoother progression into the pelvis. Additionally, it allows the mom to rest and conserve energy, which is crucial for the physically demanding process of childbirth.

Practical Application: Incorporating the Flying Cowgirl position into your labour strategy can lead to a more comfortable and productive experience. By understanding the anatomical benefits and leveraging the insights from The Body Ready Method, you can optimize your labour process. As a Body Ready Method Pro, I am equipped to assess and recommend such positions to enhance your birthing experience.

The Flying Cowgirl position is a powerful tool in the birthing toolkit. Its ability to open the pelvic inlet through sacral counternutation and iliac external rotation, combined with the opportunity for maternal rest, makes it an invaluable position for early labour. Embrace this position for a productive and restful labour experience—a win-win scenario for both mother and baby.