REPLAY: EBB 196 - Pelvic Biomechanics and Movement in Labor with Brittany Sharpe McCollum

The way we move during labor shapes far more than our comfort. It helps determine how a baby navigates through the pelvis, and whether a birth can unfold with fewer interventions!

In this replay episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Brittany Sharpe McCollum, a childbirth educator, doula, lactation counselor, and pelvic biomechanics educator. Brittany explains how the bones of the pelvis move during labor, why that movement matters for fetal positioning, and how everyone can benefit from intentional position changes during labor-- whether you're planning an unmedicated birth or not!

They explore the three planes of the pelvis, why opening the pelvic inlet and outlet require opposite movements, and how to match specific positions to where the baby is located in the pelvis. Brittany also shares her 5-4-3 rule for position changes, practical tips for inductions and epidurals, the power of asymmetrical positioning, and why movement is one of the few birth tools that carries benefit without risk.

(06:25) Exploring movement in childbirth
(10:19) Understanding baby's position in labor
(13:03) Benefits of movement during labor
(17:31) Subtle pelvic movements in labor
(23:05) Partner role during contractions
(25:17) Managing rectal pressure during labor
(27:57) Movement during labor
(32:21) Importance of prenatal education
(37:35) Understanding racism in obstetrics

Resources
EBB Signature Article on the Evidence on Birthing Positions: ebbirth.com/birthingpositions
Learn more about Brittany: blossomingbelliesbirth.com
"Baby Got VBAC: An Inspiring Collection of Wisdom for Better Births After a Cesarean"
Connect with Brittany on Instagram: @blossomingbelliesbirth

For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.