For those who didn't tear - what position did you birth in?

[Toomanytoomany]

On my knees, leaning over the raised head of the bed. I have very fast deliveries and that position seems to have helped avoid tearing. And yes, stopping to pant during crowning is important!

[Inertia]

Well, I was always on my back - all 5 times. But I dont think it was so much the position, but I refused to let them rush me. I wasn't and wont ever labour to their schedule.

My sister on the other had who has had one more baby than me, and had babies in several different positions - she almost always tore, and pretty bad, because her labours are so fast.

[New Dawn]

I did teare with my 1st but didnt with the both girls and they were all the same size ...

Ds flat on my back hooked up to every machine known to birth

DD1 on a bean bag in the shower I was on all fours until her head was almost out, then I was fliped over onto my back and pop she was out ...

DD2 on all fours on the bed and filped ance again as she crowned...

If I am lucky enought to get UTD with our 4th then I will be doing the same...

[Marlene]

I have birthed 4 babies. All four on my back (that's just how I fell comfortable when pushing). All four no drugs (actually, that's a lie...had a little gas). Gave birth at 17, 20, 25 and 33 years of age. Never had a tear.
I think I am elastic woman....LOL.

ETA: Just wanted to add that all four were quick labours (the longest was six hours) with very short pushing stages. I can't remember the correct times apart from my last birth which was 9 minutes pushing.

[CathyS]

Thanks ladies!! Sounds like taking your time pushing is really important and gravity positions. I read somewhere squatting opens the pelvis up the most. I will see how I go. I think some women are just more blessed in that area too.

[Pandora]

I was on my back with DS1 and had a first degree tear that was sutured, pushing for 2.5 hours...DS2 i was sort of sitting (on the loo!) 5 mins pushing and only a very minor tear that didnt require any stitches. So not sure on the longer pushing = less tearing, but this is what everyone told me.
ETA: both were over 10lb

[Lisa]

I birthed my DD, DS2 and Angel baby in a reclined position on my back.
DS2 came out very fast, yet I didn't tear at all.

[Inertia]

It wasnt really the pushing stage for me. It was the whole thing. I just let it happen how it was going to. If it wasnt a vbac, I'd say labour at home as long as possible because then they arent in a hurry to get you out of the room.

And when I say my sisters labours were short - we are talking 5-15 minutes total. Hence the many different positions.

Basically, only push if you know you have to. Sometimes you can resist the urge, and when you can, do.

[Lulu]

O.M.G Inertia - are you for REAL? That must do her head in? Any born in the supermarket? wow..