Peruvian Rojas endures labor pains before giving birth in the vertical position at the Belempampa Health...
Peruvian Mary Luz Rojas endures labor pains before giving birth in the vertical position at the Belempampa Health Clinic in Cuzco May 22, 2008. Belempampa is one of many clinics in Peru that have started to allow women to give birth on their feet, instead of having women lie on their backs to deliver as in most developed countries. Standing or sitting during childbirth, ancient positions that are even depicted on ancient Andean pottery, helps to reduce pressure on the uterus and increase the oxygen flow to the fetus, while reducing labor and delivery time, according to the Peruvian health ministry. Picture taken May 22, 2008. REUTERS/Mariana Bazo (PERU)