Squatting can speed things up

This is probably one of the most natural positions for women to labour in as you’ll feel in control and able to push effectively.

It’s well worth trying this if progress is slow, as it opens up the pelvis and increases the size of the birth canal. You can be supported by just your husband, or your husband and a midwife.

However, squatting can be hard on the legs. If you’ve had a long labour, you may be tired, so make sure you ask for the support you need.