What is queening chair?

The "Queening Chair," also sometimes called a "birthing chair" or "labor chair," is a specialized chair designed to support a woman during childbirth. Historically, these chairs were very common, particularly before the rise of modern obstetrics. They feature a characteristic reclined back and often a cut-out seat, which allowed midwives or attendants easier access to assist with the delivery.

Key features and purposes include:

  • Upright Posture: The chair encourages an upright or semi-upright position. This is believed to aid labor by utilizing gravity, potentially shortening the labor process and making it easier for the mother to push. You can check it in this URL: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Upright%20Posture
  • Comfort and Support: The chair provides back and leg support, promoting relaxation and reducing strain on the mother's body during contractions.
  • Access for Midwives: The design, especially the cut-out seat, facilitated access for midwives or other attendants to monitor the progress of labor and assist with the delivery.
  • Historical Significance: Queening chairs are a significant artifact in the history of childbirth practices, representing a time when childbirth was primarily a female-centered, community-supported event. You can check it in this URL: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Historical%20Significance

While less common in modern hospitals that favor beds designed for various birthing positions, some women still opt to use birthing chairs or incorporate similar upright positions during labor in birthing centers or home births.