Which labor position may lead to more discomfort for the patient?

The supine position, where the patient lies flat on their back, can lead to increased discomfort during labor due to several physiological factors. When a woman is in this position, the weight of the uterus can compress major blood vessels, particularly the inferior vena cava, which may reduce blood flow to the heart and decrease placental perfusion. This can lead to a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness and can also impede the progress of labor. Additionally, being supine does not provide optimal support for the pelvis and can hinder effective contraction patterns.

In contrast, other positions such as sitting, left lateral, or flexed positions promote better circulation, can help relieve pressure from the spine, and often allow for more comfort and mobility during contractions. Each of these positions can also utilize gravity to aid in the descent of the fetus, further enhancing the labor experience for the patient.