Floppy Face Floppy Fanny

“Floppy Face Floppy Fanny” a magic technique to make childbirth easier, more enjoyable and reduces tearing. How?

During childbirth, the process of delivering a baby can be both physically and emotionally intense for the expecting mother. It is natural to feel some level of fear, tension, or discomfort during this journey. However, there is an intriguing technique that some believe can help make the birthing experience easier, more enjoyable, and even reduce the likelihood of tearing. This technique is known as “Floppy Face Floppy Fanny.” The phrase was first said by American midwife Ina May Gaskin.

The concept behind Floppy Face Floppy Fanny is based on the interconnectedness of our facial muscles with those in our pelvic floor, vagina, and vulva. According to this technique, when the face is relaxed, especially the muscles around the mouth and jaw, it has a profound impact on the relaxation of the pelvic area as well. By consciously relaxing the face, the woman aims to create a ripple effect, allowing the muscles in her birthing canal to also relax, making it easier for the baby to pass through.

The idea of linking facial relaxation with childbirth may sound unconventional, but proponents of this technique suggest that it can have a significant impact on the overall birthing experience. By practicing deep breathing exercises, visualization, and consciously relaxing the facial muscles, women may find increased comfort, reduced pain, and a smoother delivery process.

It’s important to note that its effectiveness may vary from person to person. Every woman’s/birthing person’s experience with childbirth is unique, and there are many factors involved in the ease and outcome of the process. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or midwife for personalized guidance and support during pregnancy and childbirth.

So why am I saying Floppy Face, Floppy Fanny rather than relax your mouth and jaw? To make it more memorable for expectant parents. I’ve also been using the “loose lips, loose hips”.

Here are some flashcards for breathing techniques to help you to keep your jaw, lips and mouth relaxed. One of the most memorable but simple technique is “horse lips”.

Sources and Further Reading

• Emmer, Helene et al. “Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is associated with overactive bladder and urgency incontinence in men.” Sleep vol. 32,2 (2009): 271-5. doi:10.1093/sleep/32.2.271
• Fischer MJ, Riedlinger K, Gutenbrunner C, Bernateck M. Influence of the temporomandibular joint on range of motion of the hip joint in patients with complex regional pain syndrome. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2009 Jun;32(5):364-71. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2009.04.003. PMID: 19539119
• Dr Lauren Keller: https://drlaurenkeller.com/blog/2022/5/23/5xlrzq50dx7n127nsavetabxr7jseg
• Mamastefit: https://mamastefit.com/breathing-our-pelvic-floor-and-labor/
• Talasz H, Kremser C, Talasz HJ, Kofler M, Rudisch A. Breathing, (S)Training and the Pelvic Floor-A Basic Concept. Healthcare (Basel). 2022 Jun 2;10(6):1035. doi: 10.3390/healthcare10061035. PMID: 35742086; PMCID: PMC9222935.
• Van der Velde, J., & Everaerd, W. (2001). The relationship between involuntary pelvic floor muscle activity, muscle awareness and experienced threat in women with and without vaginismus. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 39(4), 395–408. doi:10.1016/s0005-7967(00)00007-3
• Van der Velde, J., Laan, E., & Everaerd, W. (2000). Vaginismus, a component of a general defensive reaction. An investigation of pelvic floor muscle activity during exposure to emotion inducing film excerpts in women with and without vaginismus. Submitted
• WombWisdom: https://www.wombseedwisdom.com/