Česky
Relief positions can be adopted on the birthing couch during labour to support the labour process. Mothers-to-be can lean on the couch in various ways, either in a prone or squatting position, kneeling on it, on all fours or lying down. Pads and cushions are also included to help stay in positions of relief. The couch is lightweight, simple, yet highly variable, and handling is easy.
"The birthing couch allows the mother to give birth in an upright position, which aids the natural progression of labour. Gravity helps the baby to descend through the birth canal, which can affect the second period of labour and reduce the need for intervention by the delivery staff," explains head of the delivery rooms , MUDr. Dita Pelikánová.
"We are also pleased that we can involve the expectant fathers more actively in the actual birth process when using the birthing couch. They can hug or support the woman during the birth better than on a traditional birthing bed. At the same time, of course, there is no obligation to use the birthing couch for the entire birth. Some mothers end up preferring the classic birthing bed. The advantage is the possibility of choosing the position that is best for the mother," explains the advantages of the birthing couch, station midwife Jana Zámková.
The birthing couch complements the wide range of aids available at the Maternity Hospital U Sluneční brány. To remind you, we can mention a bathtub for use in the first period of labour, the Combitrack suspension system, a birthing stool, a vaginal douche, rebozo scarves, massage oils or aromatherapy.
First-time mothers who have brought their babies into the world on the birthing couch praise it highly. After the birth itself, the mother can remain on the couch with her newborn baby and her partner together in close proximity and enjoy their first moments together.
"At antenatal talks, mothers-to-be often ask about the new couch, and it looks like it will be used more and more in the future. In our maternity hospital we have long tried to meet the wishes of mothers as much as possible, within the limits of the possibilities offered by our delivery rooms. We are very happy that our possibilities have now been expanded," concludes the station midwife Jana Zámková.
