The Miles Circuit by Sharon Muza offers a comprehensive guide for expectant parents and birth professionals on using specific positions and movements to encourage optimal fetal positioning during labor. This method focuses on achieving the Left Occiput Anterior (LOA) position, which is often ideal for a smoother birth experience. The guide outlines practical techniques that can be employed both before and during labor, making it a valuable resource for those preparing for childbirth. With a focus on natural methods of induction, this circuit can help alleviate back labor and promote progress in stalled labor. Ideal for doulas, childbirth educators, and parents seeking to enhance their birthing experience.

Key Points

  • Explains the Miles Circuit for optimal fetal positioning during labor.
  • Details specific positions like Open Knee Chest and Lateral Recumbent.
  • Provides techniques to alleviate back labor and promote labor progression.
  • Includes guidance for both pre-labor and active labor scenarios.
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THE MILES
CIRCUIT
How to use simple positions and movements before
and during labor to help the baby move into an ideal
LOA (Left Occiput Anterior) position for birth.
Sharon Muza
sharonmuza.com
I am a Seattle-based Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator
and Certified Birth Doula (DONA) and as well as a DONA
Approved Birth Doula Trainer and Lamaze Certified CBE
Trainer serving Seattle and virtually/traveling.
I named the Miles Circuit after my friend, Megan Miles, a
doula and student midwife, who first shared it with me, as I
brainstormed ideas to help a client have a successful VBAC.
It has worked so many times both pre-labor and during labor
that I now teach it in doula trainings, childbirth classes and
share with my clients!
Sharon Muza
sharonmuza.com
The Miles Circuit positions can help to rotate a baby during the
final weeks of pregnancy. As a natural method of “induction”, it
can also help get things going if baby just needed a gentle
nudge of position to set things off.
sharonmuza.com
WHEN TO USE THE
MILES CIRCUIT
In labor, I often suggest the Miles Circuit positions when labor
seems to not be progressing, (i.e., contractions are not getting
longer, stronger, and closer together) the pregnant person has
back labor, or the position is determined to be not LOA, either
by vaginal exam or external palpation or ultrasound.
To the best of my knowledge, this group of positions will not
“hurt” a baby that is already lined up correctly.
PREGNANCY + INDUCTION
DURING LABOR
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FAQs

What is the purpose of the Miles Circuit?
The Miles Circuit is designed to help rotate a baby into the optimal Left Occiput Anterior (LOA) position for birth. It utilizes specific positions and movements that can be performed during labor to encourage the baby to shift into a more favorable alignment. This method is particularly useful when labor is not progressing or when back labor is experienced. By employing these techniques, expectant parents can enhance their chances of a smoother delivery.
What positions are included in the Miles Circuit?
The Miles Circuit includes three main positions: Open Knee Chest, Lateral Recumbent, and Get Up and Active. The Open Knee Chest position allows the baby to have more room to rotate, while the Lateral Recumbent position helps in relaxing the laboring person and promoting fetal movement. The Get Up and Active section encourages upright movements like lunging and stair walking, which can further assist in the baby's descent and positioning.
When should the Miles Circuit be used during labor?
The Miles Circuit is recommended during labor when there are signs of stalled progress, such as contractions that are not becoming longer, stronger, or closer together. It is also beneficial if the laboring person is experiencing back labor or if the baby's position is not LOA, determined through examination or ultrasound. Using the circuit can provide a gentle nudge to help the baby move into a more favorable position.
How long does the Miles Circuit take to complete?
The entire Miles Circuit is designed to take approximately 90 minutes from start to finish. Each position within the circuit is intended to be held for a set duration, allowing the laboring person to relax and focus on their breathing. If contractions are present, the circuit can be performed continuously through them, making it a flexible option for those in labor.
What are the benefits of using the Miles Circuit?
The Miles Circuit offers several benefits, including promoting optimal fetal positioning and potentially reducing the duration of labor. It provides a natural method of induction that can help initiate labor when needed. Additionally, the positions can alleviate discomfort associated with back labor and help facilitate a smoother birthing process. This approach empowers expectant parents by giving them tools to actively participate in their labor experience.

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