Posts Tagged ‘Pregnant’

I’m sure that some women having read the title, Relax During Labor, have already dismissed this this article as nonsense – but it really is possible to relax during labour and make the whole process of giving birth a lot easier. Sure, it won’t be like taking a walk on a beach on a sunny but the birthing experience will become a more positive one. In fact studies have shown that women who are more relaxed during labor are more likely to have a shorter labor and less likely to need a c-section.

Learn how to relax during labor.

The reason that relaxation is so beneficial during labor is that stress and anxiety cause your body to produce hormones such as adrenaline. These hormones reduce the blood flow to the womb which in turn makes your contractions less powerful. This is why stress leads to a longer labor.

So how exactly do you relax during labor? Well you need three things – support, preparation and the proper environment.

Support comes from your close family and friends, especially whoever you choose as your birth partner. Your support will help you in the preparation. This involves going to birthing classes, learning breathing techniques, having a bag packed for the big day, etc.

Having the right environment means different things to different people. Most people now like to have a CD or play list of relaxing music to help during the birthing process. However there are many more options. For example HypnoBirthing has become very popular recently, as has water birthing. Take your time to study the options and choose the one you think will suit you the best.

Due to the nature of contractions it will be nigh on impossible to relax in the middle of one. The time to practice your breathing techniques and relax your mind are in between contractions. Allow the tension to ease away from your muscles and relax as best you can.

To learn more about preparing for labor view the video below.