#307 | When Labor Stalls: Recognizing and Resolving Dystocia with Midwife Molly O'Brien @biomechanics_for_birth

Send us a text Labor dystocia, often labeled as "failure to progress," is the leading reason for cesarean birth in the United States. At its core, prolonged labor is frequently influenced by suboptimal fetal positioning, as well as the mother’s biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology. In this episode, we delve into the true causes of labor dystocia and explore how intentional movement and positioning—both during pregnancy and labor—can promote a smoother, more efficient birth. Our discussion covers:The definitions of labor dystocia and why there is no universal consensus;How fetal positioning impacts labor progress and ways to optimize it;The effects of maternal posture, movement, and soft tissue balance during pregnancy and birth;Understanding biomechanics in making space for the baby and easing labor challenges;How the medical model misinterprets and over-manages normal variations in labor; andPractical strategies to prevent and resolve labor dystocia naturally. When a mother and baby are doing well in labor there is no upper limit to how long her labor can go. No woman should be diagnosed with failure to progress, a term we reject. This episodes provides insights and tips to optimize your labor and your baby"s position and reduced the chances of experiencing a long, difficult labor. Molly O"brien Molly on Instagram ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20% DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.com Instagram @downtobirthshow Call us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! Work with Cynthia: 203-952-7299 HypnoBirthingCT.com Work with Trisha: 734-649-6294 Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.