Stirrup’s function is to restrain you – mainly for the health care provider’s convenience.

➜ Lithotomy position – lying on your back in a supine position with hips and knees flexed, thighs apart, legs in raised stirrups or people holding your legs in the air – is the least favorable position to be birthing in for you and your baby.

➜ Lithotomy position puts pressure on the sacrum, makes the pelvic outlet smaller and doesn’t allow gravity to aid.

➜ Possibly increase the risk of severe perineal trauma, more intense sensations and a longer birthing time.

➜ It can be very triggering for sexual assault survivors.