labor

Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions

Labor and birth /
Pregnant woman sitting on a birthing ball trying to manage labor contractions in a natural way

Preparing a Birth Preferences Document (Birth Plan) Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor Rupture Of Membranes (Water Breaking) I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Breech Baby Pain Management During Labor Pitocin: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Induced Labor Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions Labor contractions are a natural part of the childbirth process. While experiencing pain during labor is normal, there are several natural ways to help manage labor contractions and make the process more manageable. By Liat Salomon, doula February 27, 2024 Share on In This Article: Natural ways to manage labor contractions Should I try to sleep through contractions? Other positions to try to get relief Natural ways to manage labor contractions It’s important to remember that every pregnancy and labor experience is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Here are some natural ways to manage labor contractions: Breathing techniques Deep breathing: Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Try to control your breath, and almost “surf” on it. Also, see if you can feel (when practicing) that with every exhale, you relax your perineum. Making low sounds or grunting can be a way to release tension and manage the discomfort of contractions. Relaxation techniques In the weeks leading to the birth, learn and practice Hypnobirthing meditations. One very good tool is the GentleBirth app, which offers a variety of great meditations. Visualization: Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful place or visualize your baby descending through the birth canal. This should also be practiced in the weeks before the birth; during birth you will not struggle with trying to think of a place or a time, and your body will already be “programmed” to do it almost on command. Position changes Change positions frequently: Walking, swaying, rocking, or changing your position can help ease discomfort. You can take short walks around your room or corridor, or simply sway back and forth while standing. Use a birthing ball: Sitting on a birthing ball and gently rocking back and forth or in a circular motion can provide relief. Use a birthing stool, and if you do not have access to one, sitting backward on the toilet can offer the same effect. Hydration and nutrition Stay hydrated: Drink water or clear fluids to prevent dehydration. Coconut water is a good alternative but keep away from other fruit juices.  Eat light, easily digestible snacks: An omelet, yogurt, salads, and soups are great. Massage Gentle lower back or foot massages from a partner or a trained doula can help relax tense muscles and reduce discomfort. Heat therapy Warm compresses or a heating pad on your lower back or abdomen can alleviate pain. I love using the good ol’ hot water bottles. Aromatherapy Some women find relief through the use of calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile. Ensure you’re in a well-ventilated room and use tissue paper or a separate cloth to put the oil on (in case you become nauseous). Music and distraction Create a playlist of soothing music or listen to guided relaxation exercises to divert your attention from the pain. Support and encouragement Think of affirmations that might help you manage contraction and regain confidence in your ability to keep going. Warm baths or showers Soaking in a warm bath or taking a warm shower can help relax your muscles and ease tension. Note: Sitting in a bath is not recommended if your water already broke. Visualization and affirmations Create positive affirmations to focus your mind on the strength and power of your body during labor. Also Read: I’m a doula: this is what a doula does Knowing when it’s time: when to head to the hospital for labor Should I try to sleep through contractions? Sleeping through contractions during the early stages of labor is highly recommended. Resting during this phase can help you conserve energy for the more active phase of labor when contractions become more intense and frequent.  The side-lying position is often considered the most comfortable. Here’s how to do it: Lie on your side with your knees slightly bent. Place a pillow between your knees to support your hips and keep your spine aligned. Use another pillow to support your head and neck. You can switch sides if one side becomes uncomfortable, or you can lie on your preferred side. This position is beneficial for several reasons: It helps relieve pressure on your back, which can be especially helpful if you’re experiencing back labor. It allows for good blood circulation to both you and your baby. It’s a relaxed and natural position that can make it easier to fall asleep or rest between contractions. It’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your position as needed. Be prepared to change positions or use other comfort measures as your labor advances. Other positions to try to get relief Here are some positions that you can use to try to find relief: Sitting upright or semi-reclined Sitting up slightly or reclining in a semi-upright position can also provide relief during early labor. Use pillows or cushions to support your back and find a comfortable angle. Supported hands and knees Some women find relief from back pain by getting on their hands and knees, either on a bed or on the floor. This position can help take pressure off the lower back. Prenatal yoga poses Prenatal yoga poses, such as the child’s pose or cat-cow stretch, can help you find relief and relaxation. I wish you a wonderful and happy birth! Questions? If you have any questions about this topic/article, please feel free to contact me through email at:  liat@doulatalks.com Liat Salomon is a certified doula since 2010 and is working in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. She has assisted

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I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does

Labor and birth /
Doula supporting a pregnant woman during labor

Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor Pitocin: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Rupture Of Membranes (Water Breaking) VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Breech Baby Preparing a Birth Preferences Document (Birth Plan) Pain Management During Labor Induced Labor I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does Choosing to be a doula is not a career decision. It is a calling. Being there for women when they are doing the most primal and basic of things — bringing another human being into the world — is definitely not a “day job.” By Liat Salomon, doula February 27, 2024 Share on In This Article: So what IS a doula? What services does a doula provide? What are the advantages of having a doula? Doula certifications What is the difference between a doula and a midwife? Choosing the right doula for you Doulas are for partners, too! I can’t say that being a doula was my childhood dream — primarily because I never heard of a doula growing up. All the birth stories I heard had the words “hospital”, “doctor”, and “pain” in them. Never anything else.  I can’t even say that it was my dream career when I was in my twenties: I worked as a journalist/news editor and loved it. But then life happened, as it usually does.  The birth of my first child was wonderful. Really. It wasn’t easy, but I felt so great after, so when I went in to give birth the second time, I had no doubt it would be the same.  Except it was not.  Looking back on both births, I realized that the key difference was that I didn’t have Valerie with me the second time. Valerie was who I kept looking for to help me go through contractions. I was looking for her massages, her confidence, and guidance — and basically just knowing she was there.  It took me nearly three years before I realized that what I wanted to do was “become Valerie.” So what IS a doula? A doula is a Greek word meaning “a woman who serves.” Today, the word doula refers to someone, usually a woman, who supports a person (and their partner) giving birth. The support includes physical, emotional, and mental support before and during labor. Also Read: Epidural: what it is, procedure, risks & side effects Preparing a birth preferences document (birth plan) What services does a doula provide? Not all doulas offer the same service packages but, generally speaking, doulas provide a range of services to support women and their partners during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Some of the services include: Prenatal support A doula can provide emotional and informational support during pregnancy, helping women and their partners prepare for childbirth, answering questions about pregnancy and childbirth, and providing guidance on birth preferences and options. Labor support During labor, a doula provides emotional and physical support to the mother and her partner. This can include providing massage, helping with relaxation and breathing techniques, suggesting different positions, and providing reassurance and encouragement. Advocacy A doula can help advocate for the mother’s wishes and preferences during childbirth, helping to ensure that the mother’s voice is heard and her needs are met. Personally, I feel that my job is to make sure that the birthing person and their partner advocate for themselves by encouraging them to ask A LOT of questions during pregnancy and during the birth — to make sure they always make the right decisions and that their “voice” is heard. Postpartum support Some doulas provide support to the mother and her partner in the postpartum period, such as helping with breastfeeding, providing emotional support, and assisting with newborn care. Overall, doulas can help to create a more positive and empowering birth experience for everyone involved. What are the advantages of having a doula? Numerous studies have confirmed the advantages of having a doula present during childbirth. These studies have shown that having a doula can lead to a range of benefits for the mother, the baby, and the birth experience overall. Here are some examples of the findings: Reduced risk of medical interventions A study published in Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care found that having a doula present during childbirth was associated with a reduced risk of infant mortality and a higher likelihood of spontaneous vaginal delivery. In addition, a Cochrane Review of 26 randomized controlled trials involving more than 15,000 women found that having a doula present during childbirth was associated with a reduced risk of C-section, shorter labors, and reduced use of pain medication. Also, a study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health found that women who received continuous labor support from a doula had a lower incidence of fetal distress and were less likely to have their labor augmented with synthetic oxytocin. Shorter labors Studies have shown that women who have the support of a doula during labor tend to have shorter labors, on average, compared to women who do not have a doula present. Improved birth outcomes Research has found that having a doula present during childbirth can lead to improved birth outcomes, such as fewer complications and a lower risk of infant mortality. In addition, having a doula’s support can also help make sure that the baby is born in a more ideal position, which may help in mitigating tears and bruises. Increased satisfaction with birth experience Studies have consistently shown that women who have the support of a doula during childbirth report feeling more satisfied with their birth experience overall. A study published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing found that women who had the support of a doula during childbirth were less likely to have postpartum depression and reported feeling more satisfied with their birth experience. Increased likelihood of breastfeeding Research has found that having a doula

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Induced Labor

Labor and birth /
labor induction procedure explained to a pregnant woman by a healthcare provider

Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor Pitocin: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Rupture Of Membranes (Water Breaking) I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Pain Management During Labor Breech Baby Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions Preparing a Birth Preferences Document (Birth Plan) Induced Labor In the U.S., it is very common for health providers to offer an induction at 39 or 40 weeks. There are some medical conditions that require it, but oftentimes the recommendations have to do with outdated protocols or convenience reasons—and are not justified. By Liat Salomon, doula February 27, 2024 Share on In This Article: Labor induction methods How painful is induced labor? Does the cervix have to be dilated before starting an induction? How long does it take from induction to labor, and how long will it take to give birth? What happens if you don’t dilate after being induced? What are the risks for mom and baby of inducing labor? How many inductions end in C-sections? When should you not get induced? When do you ask for an epidural during induction? How to prepare for labor induction How to make labor induction easier Can you walk around after being induced? Can you sleep during induced labor? How to induce labor naturally How long do you stay in the hospital after an induced birth? When I moved to California I thought that my days talking about excessive inductions were over. Boy, was I wrong…. I was blown away by the staggering number of inductions done here! Labor induction is the process of artificially starting labor in a pregnant woman. This may be done for a variety of reasons, including if the woman is past her due date, if there are concerns about the health of the mother or baby, or if the woman has a medical condition that makes continuing the pregnancy risky. In the past few years, there’s been an increase in the number of inductions being performed. There are multiple reasons for it, but the bottom line is that there are too many inductions being done—with no real medical reason—due to a protocol that does not look at someone’s actual condition and only takes into consideration a generic birthing person. One common reason for labor induction is if the birthing person is past their due date. Pregnancy is typically considered full-term at 37 weeks, but the average length of pregnancy is actually closer to 41 weeks. In fact, statistically, first-time babies are born at 41+5. Another reason for labor induction is a health concern for either the baby or the mother. For example, if the baby is not growing as expected or if the mother has a medical condition such as high blood pressure or liver issues, it could potentially put her and/or the baby at risk if the pregnancy continues. In addition, certain medical conditions can make continuing the pregnancy risky for the mother, such as pre-eclampsia, placental abruption, or placental insufficiency. In these cases, inducing labor may be necessary to protect the mother’s health. Labor induction methods Several methods can be used to induce labor. One common method is to use medication to stimulate contractions. This can be done using oxytocin, a hormone that naturally occurs in the body and helps to stimulate contractions, with the medication Pitocin or through the use of prostaglandins (such as misoprostol), which are hormones that help to soften and thin the cervix. The choice of method will depend on various factors such as the woman’s health condition, the baby’s health, and the stage of pregnancy. Here are some other common methods used for inducing labor: Membrane sweeping This is a procedure in which a healthcare provider will use their fingers to sweep around the cervix, separating the amniotic sac from the cervix. This can help release hormones (prostaglandins) that may start contractions and initiate labor. Balloon catheter This method involves inserting a small balloon catheter into the cervix to help it dilate and soften, which can help trigger contractions. Breaking the water A healthcare provider can manually break the amniotic sac (which contains the fluid surrounding the baby) using a special tool. This can stimulate the release of hormones (prostaglandins) that may start contractions and initiate labor.For further information on water breaking, you can read my article: “Rupture of membranes (water breaking)“. I will say that breaking the water is my least favorite form of induction. I feel that it starts a whole new set of protocols and is not reversible. Also, after the water is broken, you can expect contractions to get a lot more intense—right from the start—instead of building gradually. It’s important to note that all of these methods carry some risks, and induction should only be considered and done when medically necessary! Also Read: Pain management during labor Epidural: what it is, procedure, risks & side effects How painful is induced labor? Induced labor can be more painful than spontaneous labor as the body is being forced into labor before it’s fully ready. The intensity of the pain can vary depending on the woman’s pain tolerance and the methods used for induction. The contractions experienced during induced labor can be more intense and frequent, and may feel different than natural contractions.It’s important to have emotional support from partners, family members, and healthcare providers, as this can help manage anxiety and stress during labor and delivery. Does the cervix have to be dilated before starting an induction? The only induction method that requires dilation is membrane sweeping (stripping).Other forms of induction do not require a certain dilation to begin, and some of them, like a catheter, are intended to start dilation. How long does it take from induction to labor, and how long will it take to give birth? The time it takes from induction to the start of active labor can vary depending on

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Pain Management During Labor

Labor and birth /
Hands held in support of pain during labor and birth

Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions Pitocin: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Rupture Of Membranes (Water Breaking) VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Breech Baby Induced Labor Preparing a Birth Preferences Document (Birth Plan) Pain Management During Labor By Liat Salomon, doula February 27, 2024 Share on In This Article: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) Opioids Epidural anesthesia Conclusion The discussion around the use of pain medication during labor tends to be an emotional one. Some women feel it is important for them to give birth more ‘naturally’, i.e. unmedicated, and may feel that they are giving up and get disappointed in themselves if they end up asking for pain medication. I personally feel that pain medications are simply tools and that the decision to use or not use them should be made after considering and reviewing all the subjective information in real time, during labor. I also think women should feel free to change their minds during labor (in either way) without being judged or criticized. I feel that it is important to remember that labor pain is a natural and normal part of the childbirth process. I recently read an interview with a midwife that spent time with African tribes, watching and documenting women in labor. What struck me the most was  her saying that when she asked the local midwives how they help manage pain, they seemed surprised at the question. To them pain is such a natural and expected part of labor, and there is no reason to “help” with it. They just go through it. I often tell the women I work with that each woman’s experience of pain during labor is unique, and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to manage it. The intensity of labor pain can vary greatly from woman to woman, and even from one labor to another.The pain can be felt as a series of waves or contractions that build in intensity and then subside. It is typically felt in the lower back, pelvis, and abdomen, and may radiate down the legs. The pain can be accompanied by other physical sensations such as pressure, stretching and pulling. While labor pain can be managed in several ways, including using breathing and other relaxation techniques, movement, such as changing positions, walking, swaying, massage to the lower back, shoulders and legs, and hydrotherapy such as a bath or shower, (for more information on this, check out my article “Natural ways to manage labor contractions”), in this article I will talk in detail about medical pain management – pain medication. Here’s a review of the different types of pain medication that can be used during labor: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a gas that is inhaled through a mask.When inhaled, nitrous oxide can help to reduce the sensation of pain and anxiety, making it a popular option for women who want to avoid more invasive pain management options, such as an epidural. Nitrous oxide can also help to increase feelings of relaxation and reduce the intensity of perceived pain. Some women may find that it provides only partial relief and may need additional pain management options. Nitrous can also be used throughout labor, including during the pushing stage. Another advantage of nitrous oxide is that it does not interfere with the woman’s ability to move around and change positions, which can be beneficial during labor.I feel it is especially useful when a woman is tired and needs a short break. I like that it has relatively mild side effects, like nausea and lightheadedness, and I mostly like that once a woman decides to stop using it, it clears in a minute or two. Also Read: I’m a doula: this is what a doula does Knowing when it’s time: when to head to the hospital for labor Opioids Fentanyl (sometimes referred to as “IV medication”, without naming the medication itself) is often offered during labor, and is administered through an IV. Fentanyl can help reduce pain, but can also cause drowsiness, nausea, and respiratory depression in both the mother and baby. Personally, I would not recommend using fentanyl during labor because it crosses the placenta and affects the baby, potentially with dire results. If the labor suddenly picks up (due to the pelvis relaxation) the baby will be born under influence of fentanyl, which may result in a “sleepy baby”, a watered down term for a baby that has serious respiratory difficulties. Epidural anesthesia This is a common pain relief option that involves the insertion of a small catheter into the epidural space in the lower back. A local anesthetic and sometimes a narcotic are then administered through the catheter to numb the lower half of the body, including the uterus and birth canal. An epidural is typically very effective at relieving pain, but it may also have side effects, such as decreased blood pressure, headaches, and shivering. In rare cases, an epidural may cause more serious complications, such as infection or nerve damage.It is important to know that use of an epidural may decrease the frequency of contractions, causing them to occur at wider intervals after it is administered. This usually happens if an epidural is used in early labor, and rarely during active labor (5-6 CM). If the problem of contraction infrequency persists, your provider will typically suggest adding Pitocin. After getting an epidural you will stay in bed until giving birth, but in most cases you can still change positions while being in bed to continue promoting and advancing toward a vaginal birth. For a more in-depth look at epidurals, check out my article “Epidural: what it is, procedure, risks & side effects”. Conclusion The decision to use pain medication during labor is personal, and, if requested, the different medications should be

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Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor

Labor and birth /
Pregnant woman contemplating whether it's time to head to the hospital for labor

Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Rupture Of Membranes (Water Breaking) I’m a Doula: This Is What a Doula Does Pitocin: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects Pain Management During Labor VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Induced Labor Natural Ways to Manage Labor Contractions Breech Baby Preparing a Birth Preferences Document (Birth Plan) Knowing When It’s Time: When to Head to the Hospital for Labor “But how will I know when to go?” “What if I get there too early/too late?”I get these questions A LOT!There seems to be a lot of stress surrounding this decision, and it actually IS an important decision — one that may determine the course of the labor from that point on. By Liat Salomon, doula February 27, 2024 Share on In This Article: Regular contractions Water breaking Heavy bleeding Rectal pressure Decreased fetal movement Other symptoms Going to the hospital too early may cause contractions to subside and space out. Lights, noises, stress of changing location, and an unfamiliar environment — all may cause your brain to produce more adrenaline, which will interfere with the production of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for contractions. Another effect may be that your pain level will increase due to the rising stress level and not being able to maintain the “oxytocin bubble” that also helps manage pain. The concern is that if contractions start spacing out and your pain level rises, it will lead to medical interventions, which might not have been necessary had you stayed laboring at home and arrived at the hospital later when the effect of the location change on the labor process would be minimal. When I say medical interventions, this could include different types of inductions or the use of pain medications.  The timing of when to go to the hospital for labor can depend on several factors, such as your pregnancy history, your obstetrician or midwife’s recommendations, your own preferences, and, of course, the labor progression. This can be a tricky decision. However, here are some general guidelines that can help you determine when it’s time to go to the hospital: Regular contractions Timing contractions One reason to head to the hospital is when you start having regular contractions that are getting stronger and closer together. If this is your first baby, using the popular 5-1-1 method (contractions – from the start of one to the start of the next – are 5 minutes apart, lasting for 1 minute, and have been this way for at least 1 hour) will get you to the hospital too early. The early labor stage for first babies is expected to be significantly longer, and with contractions at 5-1-1, you may still be in early labor and not in active labor. First baby Personally, I recommend that if this is your first baby, you should wait until contractions are 3-4 minutes apart (or 3 contractions in 10 minutes), each contraction about a minute long, and all of this has been going on for at least an hour to an hour and a half. Second baby and up For the second baby and up, a 4-1-1 method is OK to start heading to the hospital. Also Read: Epidural: what it is, procedure, risks & side effects Natural ways to manage labor contractions Water breaking If you have been having good, frequent contractions and your water broke, it’s time to go to the hospital. Please note that if your water broke and it is clear but you are not having any contractions, you can stay home, rest, and wait for them to start. For a more in-depth look at water breaking, check out my article “Rupture of membranes (water breaking)”. Heavy bleeding If you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, it may be a sign of a problem with the placenta, so it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Please note that it is normal to have “bloody shows”, a discharge type with blood in it. It is not just normal but an actual sign of progress, and you should expect to see it, in growing amounts, until you give birth. Rectal pressure As labor progresses and the baby is descending and pushing more and more on your cervix, we expect dilation to increase and the baby to get lower in your pelvis. At some point, you can expect to start feeling a “pooping” sensation in your rectum. At first, you will feel it only during a contraction and not very strongly, but at some point, it will get stronger and more present. Later it will stay even after the contraction is over. This is a good sign to head to the hospital. Decreased fetal movement If you notice a decrease in your baby’s movement or you don’t feel any movement for a few hours, call your healthcare provider or go to the hospital immediately. Other symptoms If you experience other symptoms like severe, sharp abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital. There is one more thing to consider when trying to decide about going to the hospital. I like to call it the “I can’t take it anymore meter”. We use the term “can’t take it” very often and very loosely, even if we do not really mean it or absolutely can take it. I recommend that if you say, “I can’t take this anymore”, you will have someone around you ask two questions: Are you sure? What is it exactly that you can’t take anymore? The first question is to see if it is one of those cases where we say it but don’t mean it. For example, making you think about it may result in agreeing to revisit it again in an hour. The second one is even more important: if you can’t take the pain and wish to go in to get an epidural, that’s one thing, but if you want to go in because you are curious to

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