VIDEO 3: Positions

The postures/positions used by the patient in daily life are examined, and if they are incorrect, the patient is informed, made aware, and asked to correct them.

1. Is the standing position correct?

The head should be tilted forward, backwards or sideways, held in a straight position with the chin in and extended towards the ceiling. Make sure that the earlobes are in line with the midpoint of the shoulders. Shoulders should be kept back and in front of the chest. The pelvis should not be forward or backwards; the lumbar lordosis should be kept in a straight position without increased lumbar lordosis, and the transversus abdominis muscle should be activated. Body weight should be evenly balanced on both feet and the bottoms of the feet should be supported with low-heeled shoes. Prolonged standing in the same position should be avoided; if prolonged standing in the same position is necessary, one foot should be placed on a step whose height is comfortable for the pregnant woman, while the other foot should be kept on the floor. The foot positions should be changed after a few minutes.

• Is she in the right sleeping position?

The best lying or sleeping position can vary. In particular, the side or elevated position is preferable as a relaxation position. In the side sleeping position, a pillow of normal height should be placed under the head. A pillow can also be placed between the arms and legs for support, and a towel or thin support can be placed under the abdomen.

• Does she pick up objects from the floor in the correct position?

When lifting an object from the floor, the knees and hips should be flexed while the waist is straight to carry it below the waist. Pregnant women should not lean forward with the waist flexed while the knees are in extension. When bending down and picking up something from the ground, the distance between the feet should be wide, the feet should be close to the object and the feet should be firmly in contact with the ground. When lifting objects using the leg muscles, the pelvic floor muscles should contract along with the abdominal muscles.

• Is she sitting in the correct position?

In the correct sitting position, the lower back should be straight and the shoulders back. The hips should make contact with the back of the chair. The lower back should be supported with a small rolled towel or lumbar pillows. Sit with the knees higher than the hips and, if necessary, place a support under the feet; avoid sitting in the same position for long periods of time.