The Importance of Sujud or Squatting Positions for Pregnant Women in Late Pregnancy

The Importance of Sujud and Squatting Positions in Late Pregnancy

As pregnancy nears its end, many mothers begin to feel heavier and more uncomfortable. But did you know there are simple positions that can help prepare the body for labor?

One of the most helpful is the sujud (prostration) or squatting position — natural movements that offer many benefits, especially for women in their third trimester (from 36 weeks onward).

🧘‍♀️ What Is the Sujud or Squatting Position in Pregnancy?

• Sujud position resembles the Islamic prayer posture: knees bent, body leaning forward, with the head positioned lower than the hips.

• Squatting involves fully bending the knees and lowering the body down to a sitting position without using a chair.

Though simple, these positions are highly beneficial and widely used in prenatal yoga and pregnancy exercise classes.

🌟 Benefits of Sujud and Squatting for Late Pregnancy

1. Helps Baby Move into Optimal Position
Sujud encourages the baby to descend into the pelvis and rotate into the anterior (head-down) position — the best position for a smooth vaginal birth.

2. Relieves Lower Back Pressure
These movements release tension in the lower back and spine, especially helpful for mothers experiencing backaches from prolonged sitting.

3. Strengthens Pelvic and Hip Muscles
Squatting strengthens and loosens the pelvic floor muscles — essential for the pushing stage of labor.

4. Supports Cervical Dilation
These positions enhance downward pressure from the baby’s head on the cervix, which may promote faster dilation as labor approaches.

5. Improves Blood Flow to the Uterus
With the head lower than the heart (during sujud), blood circulation to the uterus and placenta improves, providing better oxygen and nutrients to the baby.

⚠️ When to Avoid These Positions

While generally safe, sujud or squatting should be avoided if:

• You have a history of low blood pressure

• You experienced bleeding during pregnancy

• The baby is in a breech or transverse position (without medical supervision)

• You feel dizzy or lightheaded when bending forward

💡 Always consult your midwife or doctor before starting these movements, especially if your pregnancy is high-risk.

✅ How to Do It Safely

Sujud Position:

• Use a soft surface like a yoga mat or bed

• Support your body on your knees and hands

• Slowly lower your head, keeping hips higher than shoulders

• Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, repeat 2–3 times a day

Squatting Position:

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart

• Slowly lower your body into a full squat

• Use a chair or wall for support and balance

• Hold for 15–30 seconds, repeat twice a day

🩺 Safe Movement Guidance at Bidan Anggraeni Linda

We’re here to support your final trimester with safe and effective practices — from prenatal exercises and baby positioning guidance to breathing techniques for labor.

📍 Bidan Praktik Mandiri Anggraeni Linda
Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Gg. H. Hasan 2 No.9, Bandung
📞 +62 856-5929-8380

✨ Prepare for labor with simple movements that bring powerful benefits. 💕