Both of my labour ward mentors are a bit old school and generally have hands on.... but I personally prefer hands poised. I have worked with some midwives who are hands poised, and it has given the confidence to do it now. I generally leave my hands well off for the head and body, which is lovely to see a woman push her baby out completely on her own, without someone yanking away at the baby's head. It's a really lovely sight, letting them reach down and deliver the baby themselves. And if it's well controlled I have found no difference in tears, like the research suggests.

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3rd year Student Midwife