2.3 Asymmetry of the Femur

2.3 Asymmetry of the femur

Asymmetry of the femur uses:

1. Both hip hip extension and flexion concurrently;

2. Different degree of flexion from one leg to the other leg.

These movements causes both contranutation and nutation of the iliac and sacrum at the same time, hence modifying the opening of the pelvis both in the inlet pelvis on one side, and outlet pelvis on the other side.

Asymmetrical of the femur are great to use for all stages of labor to modify the pelvic openings and especially during the pushing stage to create more space within the outlet pelvis.

Asymmetry of the femur can be done in these OMP Active Birth Positions:

• Standing supported with a birth rope or squat bar or supported by her birth partner - think a lunge (flexion) on one side and extension of the back leg or a warrior pose;

• Sitting on a gym ball with one leg in a lunge (flexion) and the other in extension;

• Kneeling or on ‘all-fours’ with with one leg in a lunge (flexion) and the other in extension

• Side-Lying with one leg in a lunge (flexion) and the other in extension - the top leg can be supported with a peanut ball.

For OMP Active Birth Positions , OMP Pelvic Mobility Protocols and OMP Comfort Measures to be effective, it has to be done during contractions and used for 5-10 consecutive contractions to see if it is effective in enabling labor to progress.