Research Says To Sit Like This During Pregnancy For A Better Delivery

There are few things a pregnant woman loves more than to sit down and rest. Lugging around a growing baby bump can be exhausting, and kicking back feels amazing after a long day. It can be tempting to just slump down on your couch and veg out, but that poor posture is actually a big no-no. It turns out, research has found there is a best way to sit during pregnancy, and you might be surprised by how it can end up benefitting you and your baby.

According to the Pregnancy Center, how you sit can effect your baby's position in the womb. When you slump or slouch, your pelvis tilts backward, and that might lead to your baby being in the posterior position (when their back is to your back). Baby Center noted that if your baby is posterior, you may end up pushing longer during labor or even needing a C-section. This is why, according to Baby Canter, doctors say you should sit up straight (or as straight as you can) during those nine-plus months.

But your baby isn't the only one who benefits from better posture. Sitting up straight is also a good way to avoid an achy back during pregnancy, according to the New Kids Center. Back pain is one of the most common complaints of pregnant women, but good posture can give you some relief by taking pressure off your spine.

Although you want to sit up straight during pregnancy, you also want to make sure you don't stay seated for too long. According to Stanford Children's Hospital, you'll want to get up and walk around once an hour or so to keep your blood flowing. That can help you avoid swelling in your feet and ankles, according to Pregnancy and Newborn.

You'll also want to pay attention to your legs when you sit down. According to Ask Dr. Sears, sitting with your legs crossed when you're pregnant can impair circulation and lead to varicose veins. Your best bet is to keep your feet firmly planted on the floor.

Good posture and sitting up straight are key when you're pregnant, so don't feel guilty about snagging the cushiest spot in your living room or the most comfy chair in your office — you need it more than anyone else.