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Why “maternal alignment” matters more than foetal positioning
When we hear the term Optimal Foetal Positioning (OFP), the focus is often on encouraging the baby into the ideal position for birth, usually anterior, head-down, and slightly to the left, which is written in birth text and has become gospel. While this makes sense in theory, the reality is that we don’t position the baby – we position the mother (or more accurately, her body and her biomechanics), and that creates the space and environment for the baby to move into the position they need for birth.
This is where maternal alignment becomes a more relevant and practical focus, particularly during pregnancy bodywork and birth preparation.
What is the Maternal Alignment Blueprint (MAB)?
MAB is about encouraging balance, alignment, mobility and stability in the woman’s body, especially through the pelvis, hips, sacrum, and surrounding soft tissues. When these structures are aligned and functioning well, the body naturally creates more space for the baby to move, rotate and descend. MAB uses an evidence-based approach that considers the physiological function of maternal movement, gravity, and soft tissue balance rather than just trying to “fix” a baby’s position.
Why focussing on maternal alignment makes more sense
We can’t “manoeuvre” the baby externally, but we can work with the structures that influence the baby’s environment.
Babies are smart, but they don’t do antenatal classes. They are working with the space they’ve got. If space is limited or imbalanced, they may adopt a less optimal position not by choice, but by necessity.
Working on the mother’s body helps improve blood flow, reduces tension in muscles and ligaments (like the uterosacral, round ligament, psoas, and pelvic floor), and creates dynamic space in the pelvis.
MAB is adaptable and individualised. It’s not a one-size-fits-all formula.
It’s about listening to the body and supporting function over forced form.
How MAB complements pregnancy massage
In my pregnancy massage workshops, we explore how fascia, muscle tightness, and structural imbalances can influence the way the pelvis moves or doesn’t move.
Some of the key areas we focus on for alignment include:
Movement and positioning during labour
During labour, it’s not about sticking to one “optimal” position – it’s about using movement and maternal positioning to respond to what the baby needs at different stages. MAB teaches how to use gravity, asymmetrical movements, and maternal instinct to create the space baby needs at the right time.
The Maternal Alignment Blueprint approach is a series of practical, hands-on techniques that support alignment, stability, and mobility. These include soft tissue massage, gentle rebozo techniques, side-lying releases, hip-opening movements, and dynamic positions that help the pelvis function optimally. When the body moves well, the baby moves well, and that’s what facilitates a smoother and more physiological birth process.
Why this matters for women and their partners
Understanding how the body functions during pregnancy, and how to support that function can make a profound difference in the lead-up to birth. When women and their partners learn simple ways to encourage pelvic balance, mobility and alignment, they’re not just “getting the baby into position”; they’re actively supporting the body’s natural rhythms and flow. With a clearer understanding of how movement, posture and daily habits influence labour, partners become confident support people and women feel more in control, more comfortable, and better equipped to handle the sensations and stages of birth. It’s practical knowledge that creates calm, connection, and confidence, without overcomplicating the process.
Why doulas and birth workers need to understand MAB
For doulas and birth workers, understanding the principles of the Maternal Alignment Blueprint is not about “doing” something to the woman or intervening in the process. It’s about supporting her to work with her body in a way that prepares her for labour – gently, gradually, and respectfully.
Doulas and birth workers who incorporate these principles into their prenatal and labour support can help women:
It’s not about prescribing positions or overthinking the process – it’s about creating an environment where function flows naturally, and the baby can navigate their journey with ease.
Muscles to focus on and activities that help
In the Maternal Alignment Blueprint, there are five core muscle areas that contribute to stability and space for the baby:
Using simple movements, and doing them consistently, can contribute to a more balanced body and make a noticeable difference in how labour progresses.
Let’s shift the focus from trying to control baby’s position, to working with the woman’s body to create an environment that supports both movement and space. Because when the body functions well, the baby responds – and that’s the sweet spot for physiological birth.
Be educated, prepared and aligned.
If you liked this article, you might find these interesting as well:
Pregnancy Massage: Is it Safe?
Do Induction Massages Really Work?
Optimal Maternal Positioning Protocols
If you have any questions or would just like more information please don't hesitate to get in touch by clicking the button below and filling out the contact form.
Contact Vicki