Laboring On the Monitors
In most hospitals, continuous external fetal monitoring (cEFM) is part of the protocol for women having a VBAC. It can also be necessary for reasons such as induction or other medical concerns. One common misconception about cEFM is that you have to stay in bed in order to be monitored. This might be something the nurses tell you, or just something you think and the nurses don’t bother to correct you on. Either way, mobility and gravity are your best friends in labor. Though the monitors do limit you to a small radius where the cords will reach, there are many positions that can still be used for your comfort and to help labor progress. (Also, don’t forget frequent bathroom breaks!)
The amazing mothers of ICAN of Atlanta have submitted the following pictures of laboring on the monitors in different positions. While cEFM can certainly present challenges, it doesn’t have to prevent you from having the birth of your dreams 🙂
We hope these pictures inspire you. Happy laboring!
New pictures are always welcome at atlanta.ga@ican-online.org
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Squatting on the floor -
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Standing, leaning -
Leaning over the bed -
Sitting -
Standing, swaying, listening to music -
Leaning over the head of the bed on hands and knees -
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Leaning over ball -
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Leaning against the squat bar -
Leaning over the bed allows for helping hands on the back -
Squatting with squat bar. You can see the monitor belt in the lower right corner -
Leaning over the head of the bed -
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Leaning on the tray -
Sitting on the ball -
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On hands and knees -
Standing using the squat bar for support -
Dr. Tate attaching Elaine's monitors himself -
In the rocking chair -
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Standing, leaning on the tray -
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Sitting -
Leaning over the bed -
You can see the monitor cords in the lower right hand corner -
Leaning over the bed -
On knees leaning on the top of the bed -
Standing up
ICAN of Atlanta has an active FB support group for metro Atlanta women who have had c-sections, some birth support professionals, and others who support ICAN's Statement of Beliefs.
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Not on Facebook? ICAN of Atlanta hosts a message board comprised of metro Atlanta women who have had c-sections, some birth professionals, and others who support ICAN's Statement of Beliefs.