Childbirth on a birthing chair at Genesis Dnepr, Dnipro: format and conditions

What are births on a birthing chair and who they suit — it’s a vertical method in which a woman gives birth while sitting on a specialized chair, which can make pushing easier by using gravity. This approach may be appropriate during an uncomplicated pregnancy and when there are no obstetric contraindications. Discuss your health, possible contraindications, position options, and pain-relief plan with your doctor and midwife in advance. The final decision is made individually based on the clinical situation and may be changed if necessary for the safety of the mother and baby.

What does the birthing-chair delivery format mean

This is a method of delivery in a seated position on a special chair, where gravity assists during pushing. It may be suitable for an uncomplicated pregnancy and when there are no obstetric contraindications. It is important to discuss health status, planned positions, and pain relief with your doctor and midwife in advance.

The decision is always individual and may change during labor.

Position: seated with support for the pelvis and legs.
Gravity helps during pushes, changing the load on muscles.
Monitoring of the mother’s and baby’s condition in the chosen position.
Discuss pain relief and comfort of the position with your doctor and midwife beforehand.
May be limited in cases of obstetric complications or fetal malposition.

This option should be considered and discussed in advance, but the final decision is made based on the clinical situation.

Who this format may suit

Giving birth on a birthing chair/stool is a type of upright delivery that is discussed in advance with the maternity team. It may be appropriate when there are no serious contraindications and when the patient wants to remain active during labor. It is important to talk through expectations, the pain-relief plan, and the partner’s involvement. The final decision is made based on the clinical situation.

Desire to discuss the birth scenario in advance with the doctor and midwife.
Presence of a partner or close person, agreed with the maternity staff.
Need to decide in advance on pain relief and pain-management options.
Pregnancy is progressing without serious complications or obstetric contraindications.
Desire to stay actively involved and to be able to change positions during pushing.
Consideration of previous birth experiences when planning the next pregnancy.
Need for a calm, clear birth plan discussed ahead of time.

Each point is considered individually with the obstetric team; the final decision may change for the safety of the mother and baby.

When delivery on a birthing chair may be limited

This format may prove unsuitable or require changes during labour if new clinical circumstances arise. Decisions are made based on the condition of the mother and baby; if necessary, the doctor and midwife will propose a different method of delivery. Such changes are a routine measure to ensure safety.

Developing obstetric complications that require more intensive monitoring or intervention.
Changes on cardiotocography or other signs of possible fetal distress.
The need for urgent operative delivery (emergency intervention).
Contraindications to the chosen type of analgesia that make comfortable sitting difficult.
Infectious or organizational restrictions affecting the possibility of having a birth partner present.
A planned or emergency cesarean section that makes this format unsuitable.
Maternal conditions in which priority is given to safety rather than the original plan.

If the need arises, the maternity team will explain the reasons in detail and offer alternatives for a safe delivery.

Who is involved in deciding the mode of delivery

The decision about the mode of delivery is made jointly and is based not only on the patient's preferences but also on the clinical picture. If you are considering giving birth on a birthing stool, it is important to state your preferences in advance so the team can take them into account. The doctor and midwife assess the pregnancy, tests, ultrasound and the fetal condition; other specialists are involved if necessary. The plan may change during labor in the interest of the safety of the mother and baby.

The patient voicing her wishes and expectations for the birth.
Assessment of the pregnancy, tests and ultrasound findings by the physician and midwife.
Monitoring the fetal condition and changing plans if indications arise.
Consultation with an anesthesiologist regarding pain relief.
Involving a neonatologist if there are risks to the baby or complications.
Joint decision-making by the team and the patient with safety in mind.
Willingness to change the delivery format during labor if medical reasons arise.

Talk about your preferences during consultations and at the maternity hospital — this helps create a clear plan. At the same time, expect that the final decision will depend on the situation at the time of labor.

What to discuss with your doctor in advance

Prepare questions for the consultation to discuss your birth plan and possible options. Be open about your expectations and concerns and talk them over with your doctor and obstetrician. Write down the answers so you have a clear reference when you go to the hospital.

Which birth format do I prefer (for example, giving birth on a birthing chair)?
Is partner presence allowed, under what conditions, and who arranges/authorizes it?
What pain-relief options are available, and is a consultation with an anesthesiologist needed in advance?
Are there risks related to previous deliveries, a cesarean section, or complications?
Which chronic illnesses should be taken into account when planning delivery?
Do current ultrasounds and tests support the chosen mode of delivery?
What is the plan of action if a change of delivery format becomes necessary during labor?
When is it best to go to the maternity hospital after contractions start or if other worrying symptoms occur?
Which documents and items should I take with me to the maternity hospital?
What are the postpartum accommodation conditions and visiting rules for relatives?

Bring your consultation notes with you and ask clarifying questions at the next appointment. Remember that the plan is discussed in advance but may change for medical reasons.

How preparation for childbirth on a birthing chair is carried out

If you are planning to give birth on a birthing chair, preparation is a series of practical steps carried out before hospitalization. The goal of preparation is to collect medical information, agree on a plan, and anticipate alternatives in case of changes. It is best to prepare together with your physician, midwife, and, if necessary, an anesthesiologist.

Consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist to assess the suitability of the chosen format.
Review of the antenatal (maternity) record and ultrasound results to verify key data.
Examinations appropriate to the stage of pregnancy that are necessary for a safe decision.
Discussion of the birth plan: positions, the partner’s role, and possible transfer scenarios.
Consultation with an anesthesiologist regarding pain relief options and contraindications.
Preparing the partner: role, limitations, and rules for staying in the delivery room.
Familiarization with required documents and a basic list of items for the maternity hospital.

Preparation helps reduce uncertainty and coordinate the team, but the final decision about the delivery approach is made based on the clinical situation during labor.

What a birth on a birthing chair usually looks like

Birth on a birthing chair follows a clear sequence, but each stage is adapted to your situation. At the maternity unit you will be admitted, the maternal and fetal condition assessed, and a final plan agreed. It is important to remember that the scenario can change at any time for safety reasons.

Admission: registration, measurement of vital signs, and initial examination.
Examination by the doctor and midwife to confirm readiness for labor.
Positioning on the birthing chair and adjusting comfort and supports.
Monitoring contractions and guiding/regulating the rhythm of pushing as needed.
Monitoring the baby’s condition (cardiotocography and clinical assessment).
Involvement of the physician and midwife in assessing position and progress of labor.
Discussion of and provision for pain relief if needed and available.
The pushing (second) stage in a seated position with support from staff and partner.
Birth of the baby, initial newborn examination, and skin-to-skin contact.
The first hours after birth: observation, help with latching, and monitoring for bleeding.

The team will explain each step in detail as needed, and if the clinical picture changes will offer alternatives to ensure the safety of mother and baby.

Analgesia during childbirth on a birthing chair

The question of pain relief for childbirth on a birthing chair is discussed in advance to agree on comfort and safety. At the consultation, possible methods and the need for an anesthesiologist’s consultation are assessed. The final decision depends on the condition of the mother and fetus and the clinical situation during labor.

- Discussion of pain relief at the prenatal visit and in a scheduled consultation.
- Consultation with an anesthesiologist if you wish to discuss regional techniques.
- Possibility of using epidural anesthesia and other approaches when indicated.
- Choice of method taking into account the patient’s condition, test results, and contraindications.
- Adjustment of the pain-relief plan during labor for medical reasons.
- Restrictions in cases of infection, coagulation disorders, or other contraindications.
- Monitoring of the mother’s and baby’s condition during anesthesia.
-
Honest explanation: it is not possible to guarantee complete elimination of pain in advance; the effect may vary.

Discuss your expectations and possible options with your doctor, obstetrician, and anesthesiologist in advance. In the delivery room, the team acts primarily in the best interests of the mother and baby, changing the plan if necessary.

How safety and monitoring are ensured during delivery on a birthing stool

Safety and monitoring during delivery on a birthing stool are a routine, planned part of the process. The team regularly assesses the condition of the mother and baby and uses available monitoring methods. Ongoing observation makes it possible to detect changes in time and, if necessary, adjust the delivery plan.

Continuous assessment of the mother's condition by the obstetrician and midwife in the delivery room.
Monitoring the fetal heart rate and its response to contractions.
Performing CTG (cardiotocography) when indicated and as clinically necessary.
Monitoring the progress of cervical dilation and the course of the pushing (second) stage of labor.
The team is prepared to change tactics promptly for the safety of mother and baby.
Monitoring blood loss, blood pressure, and the mother's overall well‑being.
Coordination with the anesthesiologist and neonatologist if emergency support is needed.

If a change of plan is required, staff will explain the reasons and offer safe alternatives. The priority is always the health of the mother and the baby.

What happens if labor doesn’t go according to plan

If you were planning to give birth on a birthing stool, it’s important to understand that a plan is a flexible strategy, not a rigid script. In the delivery room, the team monitors the situation and changes tactics as needed in the interest of safety. Such changes are made not on personal whim but for clinical indications.

Temporary removal of the partner in case of infection or emergency situations.
Switching from the birthing stool to other positions if necessary.
Use of labor stimulation (augmentation) by the physician if progress slows.
Transfer to cesarean section when indicated for rapid delivery.
Withholding or discontinuing epidural anesthesia if there are contraindications or technical impossibilities.
Modifying the plan with minimal intervention when there is a risk to the baby.
Explaining the reasons and discussing alternatives with you and the obstetric team.

Changing the plan is a normal measure to protect the mother and baby. The team will explain the reasons in detail and offer safe alternatives.

Possible risks and limitations of giving birth on a birthing stool

Any method of childbirth has its limitations, and giving birth on a birthing stool is no exception. Risks and limitations depend on the condition of the mother and fetus and on how the pregnancy has progressed, so they are assessed both beforehand and during labor. Discuss possible scenarios with your doctor and midwife so you understand when the plan might be adjusted.

Limitations of the method depend on the condition of the mother, the baby, and the course of the pregnancy.
There may be a need for additional interventions during labor.
Some pain-relief options may be limited or contraindicated in the presence of certain conditions.
Logistical or infection-control reasons may make the partner unavailable.
A switch to other positions or to a cesarean section may be necessary if the situation worsens.
Risks and limitations cannot be fully predicted based solely on other people’s experiences.
The safety of the mother and baby takes priority over a preselected plan.

Your doctor will explain in advance in which cases the plan might be changed and will offer alternatives. Changing the method is a normal part of safe labor management.

What happens immediately after birth

Right after the baby is born, the team usually arranges initial contact and a quick assessment of the mother and newborn. In the delivery room they perform cardiotocography (CTG) and a neonatal examination by a neonatologist — these procedures are routine. The team watches for bleeding, helps with the first latch, and assesses readiness for transfer to the ward. Specific actions depend on the condition of both and may differ between pairs.

First skin-to-skin contact, if the mother and baby are stable.
CTG and neonatal examination by a neonatologist are always performed.
Assessment of the mother’s condition by the doctor/obstetrician with monitoring of blood loss.
Help with the first breastfeeding latch and breastfeeding support.
Management of the placenta and brief procedures if needed.
Observation of both mother and baby during the first hours after birth.
Transfer to the postpartum ward when stable and informing the family.

The team will explain the sequence of actions and answer your questions. Remember that the exact order may change to ensure the safety of the mother and baby.

Role of the physician and the birth team

Labor is managed by a team of specialists; each person is responsible for their part of the process and interacts with you. Decisions are made jointly based on the condition of the mother and baby, not by a preset template. It is important that you understand who does what and can ask questions at any time.

Obstetrician-gynecologist — assesses risks, monitors progress, and makes clinical decisions.
Birth attendant/midwife — supports the labor process, helps with positioning, and provides practical assistance during childbirth.
Anesthesiologist — advises on pain relief and performs procedures when indicated.
Neonatologist — performs the newborn’s initial examination and provides necessary neonatal care.
Medical staff — monitor the mother’s and baby’s vital signs, perform CTG (cardiotocography) and other measurements.
Surgical team — ready to intervene promptly if an emergency delivery (e.g., cesarean section) is required.
The team and the patient — discuss the course of labor and explain the reasons for any changes in management.

The team does everything to make the birth safe and clear for you. Remember: discuss expectations in advance, but keep in mind that the plan may change for medical reasons.

How this format benefits the patient

Labor on a birthing stool offers a number of practical advantages for those who want to discuss the plan and the team's role in advance. The format helps make the birth plan clearer and more coordinated. Safety remains a priority, and the plan can be adjusted according to the situation.

A clear birth plan agreed upon in advance with the obstetric team.
The opportunity to discuss preferences for positioning and partner support.
Less uncertainty thanks to discussed scenarios and backup options.
The ability to choose and arrange for the presence of a specific physician.
Availability of pain-relief options after consultation with an anesthesiologist.
Monitoring of mother and baby from a position that is comfortable for you.
Comfortable, well-organized delivery-room conditions focused on practicality.
The team's quick readiness to switch to alternative scenarios if necessary.

Discuss these points during a consultation to understand how suitable this format is for you personally. Remember that the final decision will depend on the condition of the mother and baby at the time of delivery.

How a pre-labor consultation for delivery on a birthing stool is conducted

A pre-labor consultation is a structured review of your situation and a discussion of the action plan. At the appointment, medical history is taken, the prenatal record (exchange card) is reviewed, and test results are evaluated. Your preferences regarding the birth format and any possible clinical limitations are discussed. Sometimes additional tests or a follow-up appointment are required to accurately assess the safety of the chosen option.

Medical history: chronic illnesses, previous deliveries, and past surgeries.
Review of the prenatal record (exchange card) and current pregnancy notes.
Review of ultrasound results, lab tests, and other examinations performed.
Discuss your preferences for the birth format and your partner’s participation.
Explanation of possible limitations and situations in which the plan might be changed.
Assessment of the safety of the chosen format and recommendations by the obstetrician and midwife.
Clarification of the signs that indicate you should go to the maternity hospital.
Answers to questions and agreement on subsequent steps or additional examinations.

Bring your prenatal record and the results of recent tests to the appointment so the consultation can be as informative as possible.

Remember that the goal is to create a clear and safe plan that can be adjusted if necessary.

Please note that online consultations are available for patients from other cities. We often receive requests from Zaporizhzhia, Pavlohrad, Kamenskoye (Dniprodzerzhinsk), Novomoskovsk (Samar), Kryvyi Rih, Nikopol, Marganets, Sinelnikovo, Pokrov, Zhovti Vody, and other cities.

Preparing for admission for childbirth

Preparing for admission helps reduce stress and lets you start monitoring and labor more quickly. Gather essential documents and medical information so the doctor and midwife can assess the situation promptly. Discuss with your care team which items and medications are truly necessary, and confirm your arrival plan at the maternity hospital.

Documents: passport, health insurance policy, and the child’s documents if available.
Maternity record (pregnancy file) with prenatal notes and specialists’ assessments.
Up-to-date test results and the latest ultrasound reports.
A list of regular medications, with a note to discuss their use with the physician.
Basic items for the mother — comfort and essential personal care products.
A small set of items for the newborn, agreed with the maternity hospital.
Items for the partner if their presence is planned and permitted.
Contact phone numbers and information about the route to the maternity hospital.

Clarify details at the pre-delivery consultation and add items as needed. Remember that the final decision about admission and the mode of delivery depends on the clinical situation.

Conditions of the maternity unit and organization of care

The maternity unit is organized for different childbirth scenarios, including births on a birthing chair, when clinically appropriate. The team coordinates examinations, accompaniment, and transfers between the delivery room and the postpartum ward. Specialists and basic facilities for monitoring the mother and baby are available in the unit.

Delivery rooms equipped for various positions and for operative access.
Postpartum rooms with the possibility of rooming-in for mother and baby.
24/7 availability of a neonatologist for the newborn's initial examination.
Consultations and interventions by an anesthesiologist if pain relief is needed.
Possibility of partner-supported births in accordance with internal rules and agreement.
Individual support by a team of doctors and midwives during labor.
Monitoring and care in the first hours after birth with the option to transfer to a ward.

Please clarify organizational details and visiting rules during the antenatal consultation. The team acts in the interest of safety and is prepared to offer alternatives if the situation changes.

When to seek immediate medical attention

Some symptoms during preparation for labor require you to contact the maternity hospital or a doctor immediately, without waiting for a scheduled appointment. It is especially important to act quickly if you planned to give birth on a birthing chair or are in the late stages of pregnancy.

Bleeding or unusually heavy vaginal discharge.
Your waters have broken or you notice significant leaking of amniotic fluid.
Regular contractions that are becoming more frequent and increasingly painful.
A sudden decrease or absence of fetal movements.
Severe, persistent abdominal or back pain.
Very high blood pressure or a sudden rise in blood pressure.
Severe headache or sudden changes in vision.
Marked weakness, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.
Fever with chills and a general worsening of how you feel.
Any sudden serious change in your condition that causes concern.

If any of these signs occur, it is best to go to the maternity hospital immediately or call emergency services. A quick assessment allows the team to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I choose to give birth on a birthing chair in advance?
A: Yes, you can discuss this option in advance at a consultation, but the final decision depends on medical assessment and the condition at the time of delivery.
Q: Are births on a birthing chair suitable for everyone?
A: Not for everyone — suitability is assessed based on the prenatal record, ultrasound and the condition of the mother and fetus; the team makes the final decision.
Q: Can the plan be changed and switch to a different format during labor?
A: Yes, the plan can be changed for clinical indications in order to ensure the safety of the mother and baby.
Q: Can I discuss the birth format before contractions begin?
A: You should discuss your preferences at the pre-labor consultation so the team knows your expectations and any possible limitations.
Q: Can I have my partner present during delivery?
A: Partnered births are possible with agreement and compliance with the hospital’s internal rules; in some situations the partner’s presence may be temporarily restricted.
Q: Is epidural anesthesia possible when giving birth on a birthing chair?
A: Epidural anesthesia is possible if there are no contraindications; the anesthesiologist makes the final decision about suitability after examination.
Q: Who decides on pain relief?
A: The decision is made by you together with the team and the anesthesiologist, who assesses indications and risks; the plan can be adjusted during labor if necessary.
Q: What if the chosen pain relief method is not suitable?
A: The anesthesiologist will offer alternative methods or change the approach as indicated, prioritizing safety and the current condition.
Q: When is it best to go to the clinic when labor starts?
A: You should go when contractions are regular, when your waters break, or if you have worrying symptoms; precise criteria should be discussed at your consultation.
Q: What documents and tests should I bring to the maternity hospital?
A: Bring your passport, insurance policy, prenatal record and up-to-date test results and ultrasound so the team can quickly assess the situation.
Q: Can I come to the appointment with completed tests?
A: Yes, bring all current examinations — this will speed up the assessment and discussion of the birth format.
Q: What happens if a cesarean section is needed during labor?
A: The team will promptly explain the reason and offer a safe delivery plan; switching to a cesarean is a standard alternative when indicated.
Q: How long is the usual stay in the clinic after birth?
A: Length of stay depends on the condition of the mother and baby and is discussed individually; check exact timing at your consultation.
Q: What happens immediately after the baby is born?
A: The newborn receives an initial examination (by a neonatologist) and CTG if indicated; first contact and breastfeeding assistance are arranged when possible.
Q: Can I meet the doctor in advance and discuss the plan?
A: Yes, meeting and discussing the plan at a pre-labor consultation is recommended and helps reduce uncertainty.
Q: How can I discuss accommodation and partner arrangements in advance?
A: Clarify the rules and options at the appointment: who may be present, visiting hours and conditions for mother and baby staying together.
Q: What should I do if my condition changes during pregnancy?
A: If you experience new or worrying symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or come to the maternity hospital for assessment; do not postpone until a scheduled appointment.