Foetal positioning plays a significant role in how labour progresses. A baby that is positioned head down, well-flexed, and rotated optimally within the pelvis is better placed to navigate the birth canal with less resistance. When positioning is less favourable, labour can be slower, more uncomfortable, or more likely to require intervention. Spinning Babies® is a physiological framework, developed by midwife Gail Tully, that addresses this directly.
The Three Core Principles
The Spinning Babies® approach is organised around three principles: Balance, Gravity, and Movement.
Balance is the foundation. Tension or asymmetry in the soft tissues and joints of the pelvis can prevent the baby from finding the most favourable position for birth. Restoring balance to these structures is a central goal of osteopathic treatment in pregnancy.
Gravity is applied strategically. Specific maternal positions can open the pelvis at different anatomical levels, creating more space for the baby to descend and rotate.
Movement supports the process. Active, intentional movement during labour encourages foetal rotation and helps labour progress naturally.
How Osteopathy Complements This Approach
Osteopathy and Spinning Babies® share a common foundation: both recognise that pelvic balance and soft tissue health directly influence foetal positioning and the progression of labour. Osteopaths Rea, Lauren and Alyssa have attended a Spinning Babies® workshop and draw on this framework alongside osteopathic assessment and treatment in their pregnancy care.
In practice, this may include hands-on assessment of the pelvis, sacrum, hips, and surrounding soft tissues to identify areas of tension or restriction that could be influencing the baby's position; gentle manual treatment to address these findings; and guidance on positions and daily movement to support pelvic balance in the lead-up to labour.
This is most relevant in the third trimester, and may be particularly useful for women with a breech, transverse or posterior baby, pelvic girdle pain, or a history of prolonged labour.
Further Information
If you would like to discuss whether this approach may be appropriate for your pregnancy, please feel free to contact us or raise it at your next appointment.