Modified side-lying release

image of molly teaching side lying release: wtreat position 2 P1000727Anonymous submission, Midwife

Location: Ireland

Challenge: Labour dystocia – possible cesaerean section imminent

Solution: Modified side-lying release, one session, 10 minutes on each side

Place of birth: Delivery Suite

I used the modified side-lying release on a lady with labour dystocia; she was a primigravida (her first baby), with an epidural, who had stalled at 3cm dilation. She had been labouring all night and most of the day, and the next vaginal examination was going to determine a decision for c-section. I heard her story and I asked if I could go into her room. The lady herself had attended a chiropractor during her pregnancy and was very receptive to trying the technique. She was 8cm dilated following the modified side-lying release and had a natural vaginal delivery 3 hours later! One of the managers was very interested in what magic I had performed. I just said, "It’s not magic, it's science and a better understanding of pelvic anatomy and birth physiology, which unfortunately midwives are not taught in great depths at university. Any one of us would be capable of using the techniques, when they have completed the Biomechanics course!"

Thank you for sharing your knowledge, I know it’s going to make a huge difference to my midwifery practice and the care I provide. I had been proactive in providing choice, improving experience and reducing possible birth trauma. I went home that day feeling like a real midwife.