The Truth About Pushing During Labour: What Every Pregnant Woman Should Know
Labour is one of the most intense experiences of a woman’s life, and the way a woman pushes can significantly impact her birth experience. One of the most debated topics in maternity care is whether pushing should be coached or spontaneous, and how breath-holding affects both mother and baby.
In this blog, we’ll explore the latest research on pushing techniques, the risks of ‘purple pushing,’ and how pregnancy yoga can help women connect with their bodies for a more intuitive birthing experience.
What is ‘Purple Pushing’ and Why Does it Matter?
‘Purple pushing’ is a term used in maternity care to describe prolonged breath-holding and forceful pushing during labour. This technique is commonly coached in hospital settings, where women are encouraged to take a deep breath, hold it, and push for a count of ten.
However, research suggests that holding the breath while pushing (also called the Valsalva maneuver) may lead to negative side effects, including:
- Burst blood vessels in the face and eyes
- Increased risk of perineal tearing
- Reduced oxygen flow to the baby
- Exhaustion and maternal distress
Instead, many experts now recommend spontaneous pushing, where the mother follows her body’s natural urge to bear down rather than being directed to push on command. This approach has been linked to fewer complications and a more positive birth experience.
When is Coached Pushing Necessary?
While spontaneous pushing is generally preferred, there are cases where coached pushing can be beneficial, such as:
- When a woman has an epidural and cannot feel the urge to push.
- If the baby needs to be delivered quickly due to distress.
- In cases of maternal exhaustion where guidance may help direct energy efficiently.
A supportive birth team, including midwives and doulas, can help women find the best balance between following their body’s instincts and using coached techniques when needed.
How Pregnancy Yoga Helps with Pushing
Practicing prenatal yoga is one of the best ways to prepare for labour, including the pushing phase. Yoga enhances body awareness, breath control, and pelvic floor strength, all of which contribute to a smoother and more effective pushing experience.
Here’s how pregnancy yoga supports a better birthing experience:
- Increases body awareness – Yoga helps women tune into their bodies, making them more likely to recognize the urge to push when the time comes.
- Promotes optimal fetal positioning – Certain yoga poses encourage the baby into the best position for birth, reducing the need for interventions.
- Reduces the likelihood of epidural use – Studies show that women who practice prenatal yoga are less likely to request an epidural, which means they can feel their body’s natural pushing reflex.
- Improves breathing techniques – Yoga teaches controlled breathing, which helps women avoid prolonged breath-holding and push more effectively.
Tips for an Empowered Pushing Phase
- Trust Your Body – If you don’t have an epidural, allow yourself to follow your natural urge to push.
- Breathe Freely – Instead of holding your breath, exhale while pushing to maintain oxygen flow.
- Change Positions – Upright positions such as squatting or kneeling can make pushing easier and more effective.
- Stay Relaxed – Tension in the body can slow down labour. Use yoga breathing techniques to stay as relaxed as possible.
- Advocate for Your Preferences – Discuss your birth plan with your midwife or doctor and express your preference for spontaneous pushing.
Final Thoughts
Pushing during labour doesn’t have to be a stressful, exhausting experience. By staying connected to your body and practicing techniques like those taught in pregnancy yoga, you can have a more instinctive and empowered birth. Whether you’re planning a natural birth or using pain relief, understanding your options will help you make the best decisions for you and your baby.
If you’d like to prepare for a smoother labour, join one of our pregnancy yoga classes at YogaMums.ie. We’ll help you build confidence, strength, and breath control for a positive birth experience!
