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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

The secret to a more comfortable labor

Published 26 days ago • 2 min read

Movement during labor can truly transform your birth experience. As baby makes their journey through your pelvis and into the world, positioning matters. When I'm supporting someone during birth, I'm always thinking about the three levels of the pelvis and how we can encourage gentle opening through movement.

These adjustments to positions are subtle, but they can make all the difference. Let me break down the three levels for you:

The Pelvic Inlet (Top)​
This is where your baby's presenting part (typically their head) first enters and engages to begin moving down. To open the inlet, think "knees out" (external hip rotation) is your friend here. Try positions like deep squats, all fours with knees wide, or even sitting on the toilet.

The Mid-Pelvis (Middle)​
This is where baby does most of their rotating. The key here is to "unlevel" your pelvis by positioning one hip higher than the other. Great positions include the Captain Morgan stance, wide half-kneeling lunges, and curb walking.

The Pelvic Outlet (Bottom)​
This is where baby makes their final exit, right around your sit bones. Here, we want "knees in" (internal hip rotation). I know this might seem different from what you've seen in movies or what you might hear about feet in stirrups, but bringing your knees wide actually closes the outlet slightly. Instead, try all fours with knees in and ankles out, a standing forward lean with knees slightly inward, or a birth stool with your knees gently turned in.

The Bottom Line?​
Move consistently throughout labor while honoring your need for rest. Ideally, you'll change positions every 4-6 contractions, choosing what feels right for your body and the birth you desire. You deserve to feel supported in whatever positions you end up laboring and pushing in.
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Whether you are looking to rebuild in postpartum, wanting to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, or improve your general health- I am here for you. I have 2 openings for 1:1 coaching in February. If you want to learn more - fill out my coaching application.
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With peace and love,

Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
​Doc Halley Solutions​

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In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!

If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.

Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:

Looking for a comprehensive birth education that covers more than birth? Join Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth + Family) and I on Sunday, March 15th 2026 10a-3p in West Salem, WI at Coulee Health. Class includes a spot for you + a partner. Light snacks + refreshments provided. You will receive a workbook + 5 hours packed full of valuable information! Register here​

I am looking for doulas or women who are ready to take their doula training to join my team! You can learn more here (you will have to request access to view this document).​

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**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

2172 Diagonal Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601
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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

Chiropractor, coach, doula. Empowering women through all of life's transitions.

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