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Labor is anything but easy! We know, either through our past experiences or traditional portrayals on TV, that labor is a painful process, to put it rather lightly. While there are many old-wife tales and magic herbs to make labor more comfortable and easier than normal, here are eight processes that work rather well.
1. Childbirth Classes
While this may seem a bit embarrassing for many women, we assure you, a childbirth class is one of the most effective ways of an easier labor. However, make sure that your childbirth class instructor is a certified professional. Attending the classes helps you acclimatize to the throes of labor, and, in turn, makes the process easier when you are giving birth to your little one.
2. Fitness Is Important
Popular belief states that pregnancy is a time when you should avoid exercising and exerting yourself. However, this shouldn’t be viewed as an excuse to let yourself go. According to the University Of California professor Tekoa King, “Pregnant women who stay in shape tend to have shorter labors.“ There are many low-impact and low-risk exercises that you can opt for when you are pregnant. But consult your doctor for a personalized exercise plan for you.
3. Distraction
Now, we know how hard it can be to distract yourself when the contractions begin. However, what you need to remember is that this is a natural process, and you will have to go through the motions. According to Dr. King, “If you start worrying from the onset, counting contractions, and breathing through every ache, you’ll wear yourself out.” So, you need to stay calm and try to relax your body.
4. The Right Support
No, we aren’t talking about moral or emotional support. We know that your partner or your mom will be right by your side all through the process. However, the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology published a study, where a doula’s (nurse trained to support women undergoing labor and help the partner) support reduced the mom’s chances undergoing a C-section by a little more than half.
5. Warm Showers
When the contractions begin, there isn’t much you can do; or so you think! One of the best ways of ensuring that you experience a smooth childbirth and a less painful labor is to take a warm shower. Showers help reduce pain in the muscles and relax them, leading to a comfortable labor. According to Dr. Marcie Richardson, M.D, labor can tense your muscles, and “a warm shower can counter that response”.
6. Watch What You Eat
Snacking during labor has its share of detractors and disbelievers. However, eating the right foods can help you maintain the energy levels you need for this grueling process. Ensure that you avoid excessively oily and high-fat foods, as they could lead to nausea and vomiting later in labor. Also, remember to drink only water at home. Let the doctors decide what is the best thing to rehydrate your body. Sugar-laden or glucose drinks can lead to discomfort when you are giving birth.
7. Stand Upright
Standing upright through your labor can work for you. Gravity pulls your baby’s head onto your cervix. You can also try other positions like squatting or kneeling. Dr. King says, “Movement helps widen your pelvis, allowing the baby’s head to pass through.” So opt for a posture that makes you feel comfortable.
8. Go For A Massage
A massage is one of the best ways to ensure an easier than normal labor. Ask your doula or your partner to give you a light massage. Science says that pain can be relieved either by a massage or a heating pad. Your partner can begin massaging your shoulders and neck and then move down to the lower back.
