Forward Leaning Inversion

Purpose:

This techniques increases space within the uterus for the baby to move into an optimal position.

This movement stretches the uterosacral ligaments.

These ligaments are bilateral fibrous bands that attach the cervix to the sacrum (recto-uterine or sacrocervical ligaments)

This movement can lengthen the ligaments to aid alignment of the uterus within the pelvis.

When to use:

All pregnant women without a contraindication can do the Forward-leaning Inversion.

During pregnancy

  • Daily or weekly from around 20 weeks to prepare body or when there are pregnancy discomforts such as constipation, stiffness, back or pelvic pain and for general discomfort from pregnancy or baby movements.

  • Breech presentation is diagnosed in pregnancy

During labour - at any point during labour

  • When the baby is not in an ideal position (optimal fetal position - LOA)

  • During each phase of labour

  • In early or slowed active labour

  • Doing this movement in labour will make space for the baby should things have slowed, helping labour progress.

  • Suspected asynclitism or tight/swollen cervix.

Method:

  • Do this movement slowly

  • Encourage breathing throughout movements.

  • Kneel on the edge of the couch, bed or chair.

  • Carefully lower the upper body and bring hands to the floor.

  • When ready, lower further to rest onto forearms.

  • Keep elbows out and hands close.

  • Let head hang loosely and tuck chin slightly.

  • Knees should be close to the edge and bottom up high.

  • Encourage 3 breaths (in through nose for 4 and out through mouth for 6,7 or 8)

  • With the support of partner come back up on to hands.

  • Come up immediately into a high kneeling position.

  • Encourage two or three breaths whilst eyes stay closed (if labour dystocia repeat movement again).

Contraindications/cautions:

  • High blood pressure.

  • Polyhydramnios (increased amniotic fluid).

  • IUGR - Intrauterine Growth Restriction.

  • Recent laser eye surgery.

  • Any condition related to an increased risk of stroke.

  • If there is a suspected or known problem with the placenta in pregnancy.

  • If there has been an increased amount of fluid in labour and the baby is high at -2 station or above and the waters have released with the baby’s head high (in which case, open the pelvic brim with Walcher’s or a variation - your midwife can support you with these movements).

Move slowly into and out of this movement.
Remember to encourage breathing.