200 years ago, women in the UK gave birth standing up or on all fours. Today, the most common position in most Western countries is lying on the back. This is the best position for controlling a safe birth, according to obstetricians.
However, the most natural position for giving birth is the upright position. The weight helps the neck of the uterus dilate, positions the baby's head in the best possible position and makes it easier for the baby to emerge. 80% of ethnic groups in Africa, South America and Asia adopt the upright position (standing, sitting, crouching, suspended or on the knees).
In Western countries, women are advised to stay lying on the bed for medical reasons, whereas in other cultures they are allowed and encouraged to move around and walk about for during the entire birth to facilitate the baby's entry into the world.
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