Doulas of Kentuckiana — Comfort Measures for Labor

Let's face it, giving birth isn't exactly a stroll through the park.

For mothers looking for a drug free birth, comfort measures are everything. Our bodies go through a lot of changes during the delivery process and moving in different positions can alleviate some of the discomfort.

Hey sweetheart, help me out here.

Dad's and partners, do your part!

Having your partner lend a helping hand in coaching you through each transition, it can encourage them to feel more confident along the way. Practice some of these labor positions with your other half before the big day comes to be as prepared as can be.

If you're expecting and expecting a doula, she'll be there to walk you through each position before you head into labor. With baby on the way you can re-position your body to alleviate some tension on your pelvic floor, back and hips.

Rock a Bye Baby

As a southern mom to be, a rocking chair is no new invention. Use this comfy chair to your advantage by elevating your feet and gently rocking. The motion will help your mind focus through discomforts and elevating your feet will take strain off your back and promote circulation. Sometimes it's even helpful to sit on a cushion or a heating pad.

Slow Dance

We'll call this one "The Waiting Waltz." Your partner can hold or massage your back and rocking back and forth to music helps get your blood flowing and your weight better distributed between contractions. Listening to your favorite slow songs can also help you focus and recenter your mind away from discomfort to put you more at ease.

Have a Ball

A big exercise ball is your birthing best friend. Balancing on the ball, rocking or using it to support you while you stand can help your baby descend and take some pressure off your hips and lower body. Many women also use a peanut shaped ball between their legs to align their hips and help get the ball rolling on baby's arrival.

The Climb

It's not the mountain, it's the climb! Climbing stairs slowly helps distract you from discomforts and encourages your baby to position properly. Your partner can lend a helping hand keeping you focused and motivated while you power through your contractions.

Every birthing body is different.

What works awesome for some laboring moms won't work for others. Don't be hesitant to test new positions and techniques to alleviate some or your delivery discomfort.