Comfort Measures and Pain Management During Labor
This blog is talking all about comfort measures and pain management during labor. Let’s face it, childbirth is a journey and can be painful & difficult! That being said, there are so many ways to help manage the sensations of labor- from position changes, rebozo support, water therapy, and the breath.
Let’s start by talking about position changes. It’s important to listen to your body and move in the ways that feel good to you- in that moment!
Sitting: if sitting feels good to you, there are a couple options. Birth balls are great because you are in an upright position, but you can also get some movement in. Slow circles can feel good if you’re feeling tension in the hips, and bouncing is a good way to stay in your body. If you have an epidural, no fear! Hospital beds are amazing because they move in all sorts of ways to support you during labor. Try sitting up straight and dropping the bottom of the bed down so that you are “on your throne” like the Queen you are. Another option that feels good to some is sitting on the toilet! Ask your doula to set up some pillows so you’re able to relax and be comfortable.
Standing: Standing is a great way to allow gravity to work FOR you. You can take a walk, stand against a wall or slow dance with your partner for an extra oxytocin boost!
Squatting & lunges: Squats are great for opening the pelvis! Use a rebozo to squat down low, or if a birth stool is available, that is a great option because your pelvic floor can relax fully! Lunges allow your baby to engage in the pelvis and arrive in the optimal position! This type of movement is really beneficial during early labor.
Hands & Knees: This position is really comfortable for some people! Not only does it allow baby to get into the ideal position, but it releases low back pressure!
Now that we have gone into some position changes and movement, let’s talk get into the nitty gritty of pain management!
Your partner or doula can give you hip squeezes and counter pressure to relieve some tension in the low back and hips. In my experience, most people do have a lot of sensation happening in those areas!
Hot and Cold therapy: During labor, it’s totally normal to get really hot or cold easily. Warm blankets or cool cloths on the back of the neck or on the forehead can help immensely even if you don’t need them for very long!
Water therapy: Oh man, this is a big one for a lot of people! If you’re able to get in the tub or shower, it can ease pain and increase relaxation in the body. Most monitors are able to get wet these days, so talk to your provider/nurse and let them know you may want to use the tub as pain relief during your labor!
Here is a list of other tools that may help you manage pain in labor:
Aromatherapy
Laughter
Air circulation
TENS Unit
Massage or Reflexology
Guided visualization or Meditation
Focusing on your breath
Oxytocin boost- Be with your partner and love on each other! Oxytocin helps labor progress and endorphins are the body’s way of reducing pain
Again, it’s so important to listen to your body during labor! Your doula, partner, and provider are there to help guide you along the way and keep you feeling safe and comfortable.