Second stage is going very quickly, and a woman's care provider has suggested she slow it down a little to give her perineum time to stretch. Which of the following is NOT a technique the doula might try to help this mother?
Explanation
Answer: A - A squatting position shortens the birth canal, uses gravity to its best advantage, and increases the size of the pelvic outlet - three things that should not be done in a mother at risk for a perineal tear. Getting her into a side lying, gravity neutral position can slow the baby's descent. By taking small panting breaths or making quick blow or puffs (like blowing out a candle), a mother can keep herself from adding force to the natural uterine contractions. The care provider may be supporting the perineum with his or her hand, and if not, the partner or doula can assume this role. Perineal support helps the fetal head to move slowly over the tissues, keeping them from splitting.
