Wow, thankyou for all the replies everyone. It seems different positions work for different people. I guess I better just go with what feels right at the time. I might be somewhat limited though as the hospital does want EFM because of my vbac but they did say I should be able to get off the bed and be on the fitball etc if I want.
It's interresting to see that it seems a lot of you who birthed in the semi reclined position had minor or even no tearing.

Cassius - out of curiousity, why did the OB want you to do that?
My friends Ob did the exact ame thing. And it pretty much comes down to because it's more convenient for the OB if the mum is on the bed

teni i actually got to grab DD under the arms and pull her onto my tummy by myself, im sure thats what mamaspice is refering to!
yes this is exactly what I'm refering to My student midwife actually suggested it to me and I really love the idea.