What is a CUB chair?
Do you know what a CUB chair is?
A CUB chair is a wonderful tool that you should plan to use while laboring and birthing. In today’s blog post I’m going to explain what a CUB chair is, how to use it, and so much more.
Laboring is hard work and trying to be comfortable while you labor is even more difficult. A CUB chair is exactly what you need to help you to feel comfortable and supported while still actively progressing.
You’re able to have a better sense of control over your labor while using a CUB. This chair can be used for both the laboring and pushing stages.
What is a CUB chair?
CUB stands for comfortable upright birth. The chair is a mix between a traditional birth stool and a birthing ball. The chairs are inflatable which allows for easy transporting and storage when not in use.
CUB chairs allow for support, comfort, and relaxation while still being able to help labor progress. Being in an upright position while laboring is ideal. The CUB chair aids in several upright positions.
Here are some statistics for laboring and birthing in an upright position:
54% decreased chance of your baby becoming distressed in labor
30% more room created in your pelvis for baby
21% less likely to need an episiotomy
23% less likely to need the use of forceps
29% less likely to need an emergency c-section
Is it safe to use?
Yes; when used correctly. The CUB chair is not a tool that will cause any harm as long as it is used appropriately.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a CUB chair:
It should never be used by more then one person at the same time
Never try to stand or balance on it
Only use the CUB chair while you’re dry to avoid any slipping (use a towel with it if you were just in water)
The CUB chair is not to be used by children
Keep it away from any heat source
Keep it away from anything that may puncture it
How do I use it?
At first glance, the CUB chair may not seem like much. It’s not a typical shape that we think of in the birthing world. So how do you use it?
There are several positions that you can use your CUB in:
Asymmetrical kneeing position (using one knee)
Side lying position; similar to using a peanut ball (with one chamber deflated)
Sitting upright (with one or both chambers inflated depending on your height)
Supported hands and knees position (again with one or both chambers inflated)
Supported upright kneeling position
Supported squatting position
Keep in mind that CUB chairs are height customizable. You are able to inflate or deflate each chamber to achieve the most comfortable position possible.
Having the support of a CUB chair allows you to stay in each position for a long period of time without feeling as tired or sore as you would without it.
One of my favorite things about a CUB chair is that the bottom is flat so it will not roll away from you the way a birthing ball might. This allows for all of the above positions to be done while on a bed.
Where can I get one?
CUB chairs can be purchased directly through their website or their Amazon store.
Purchase one here: CUB Mama
Another way to get your hands on a CUB chair for labor would be to hire a doula who has one! I personally bring a CUB chair to every birth that I attend. The use of one is included in my doula support fees for clients.
Check out what else I offer here: Birth Doula Support
Now that you understand what a CUB chair is and why you should use one during labor; go ahead and order one or find a local doula that offers the use of one.
Are you planning to use a CUB chair for your labor? I would love to have you share about it by emailing me at therocdoula@gmail.com
If you’ve found this blog post to be helpful; please share it with others so that they can also benefit from knowing about using a CUB chair in labor.
Hi, I’m Jocelyn.
I’m a doula and breastfeeding educator in Rochester, NY.
Follow me for all things pregnancy, birth, and lactation support.
