Sims' position

Sims' position

The Sims position, named after the gynaecologist J. Marion Sims, is usually used for rectal examination, rectal temperature taking, treatments, enemas, and examining women for vaginal wall prolapse.

It is performed by having the person lie on their left side, left hip and lower extremity straight, and right hip and knee bent. It is also called lateral recumbent position. The Sims position is also described with the person lying on their left side with both legs bent.

Detailed description

The position is described as follows

1. Patient lies on their left side.
2. Patient's left lower extremity is straightened.
3. Patient's right lower extremity is flexed at the hip, and the leg is flexed at the knee. The bent knee, resting against bed surface or a pillow, provides stability.

Common uses

1. Administering enemas
2. Postpartum perineal examination
3. Per-rectal examination
4. Osteopathic manipulative treatment techniques

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