Midwives' Preferred Birthing Positions During Second Stage of Labour in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper set out to explore the midwives' preferred birthing positions during the second stage of labour in selected hospitals in Owerri, Imo state. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design, with 121 sample size randomly selected for the study in selected public and private hospitals. Questionnaire and interview schedule were used to elicit data from the respondents. The result showed that 79% preferred the lithotomy position, 14% preferred the dorsal position, 2% preferred the all-fours, 1% preferred the squatting and 4% preferred the sitting position. This means that 93% of the respondents preferred horizontal birthing position while 7% preferred the alternative birthing position during second stage and this comes with some complications and risks for the mother and child. The result contrasts with evidence-based study which revealed that alternate birthing positions are more beneficial to the mother and child, and also prevent complications. To this end, the study recommends that midwives and mothers should be re-educated and enlightened on evidence-based approach so as to change their knowledge and preference of the birthing positions.  Women in labour should be allowed to make choices of preferred birthing position during second stage except horizontal position.