title: #2: Freedom of Movement throughout Labor.
abstract: In this position paper-one of six care practice papers published by Lamaze International and reprinted here with permission-the benefit of allowing freedom of movement throughout labor is discussed and presented as an evidence-based practice that helps promote, protect, and support normal birth. The paper is written for childbearing women and their families. The accompanying commentary-written by a well-known author of numerous articles and books on childbirth-compares the activities of women in two birthing environments: the conventional medicalized setting and the unconventional naturalistic setting. Reasons why women may not move in labor are presented. Lamaze International encourages women to use movement in labor in order to make labor more comfortable and more efficient.
authors.affiliation: P enny S imkin lives in Seattle, Washington, and has specialized in childbirth education, counseling, and support since 1968. She is author or co-author of numerous books and articles on childbirth.
authors.forename: Teri
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Shilling
authors.forename: Joyce
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Difranco
authors.forename: Penny
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Simkin