Labor comfort measures

Labor is hard work. Comfort measures can help a lot. Here are some comfort measures you can try:

1. Counter-pressure

A birth partner or doula applies firm pressure to the lower back. This counters pain from contractions and can provide relief.
Helps relieve lower back pain during labor.

2. Side-lying position

Lying on the side with slightly bent knees.
This position eases back pain and reduces strain on the lower back and pelvis.
Encourages the best position for your baby.

3. Double hip squeeze

A birth partner or doula stands behind the birthing person and squeezes both hips at the same time.
Can help ease back pain. Opens the pelvis and reduces pressure on the sacrum.

4. Birthing ball

Birthing person sits on a birthing ball and gently rocks side-to-side or moves in circles with their hips.
Helps the birthing person to relax. Uses gravity to reduce pressure on spine and pelvis.
Can help labor progress.

Comfort measures can help with pain during labor. But everyone is different. What works for you may not work for others. Talk to your doctor or midwife about trying comfort measures to manage pain in labor. Your birth partner or a doula can help you use comfort measures during labor and birth.

Things that can change how long it takes

Being healthy: If you're healthy and exercise, it can help labor go faster.

Baby position: A baby in the head down position with their chin tucked into their chest is usually easiest for mom and baby.

Mental preparedness: Being calm and prepared can help a lot. Taking a childbirth class is a good idea.

Support: Feeling safe where you’re giving birth and having skilled people around to help you can make it easier.

Relaxing: Doing things to relax, like breathing through contractions, can make it better.

Natural or induced labor: Sometimes your doctor or midwife needs to get labor started for you. This can change how long it takes.

Coping skills: Everyone is different, so some people need more time than others. What helps in the beginning of labor might be different than what helps later on. Your needs might change and that’s okay.

Talk to your doctor or midwife if you’re worried about how long labor will take. They can help you learn the process of childbirth and answer your questions. It’s their job to make sure you’re okay. Remember how long it takes to have a baby is different for everyone. Try to be flexible, trust your body, and know that your care team is there to help you.

Descent of the baby

Your baby moves down through the pelvis as they get into position for birth.

As this happens, you may feel “lighter” up by your ribs as it becomes easier to breathe. At the same time, you will likely feel more pressure in your bottom.

In this process, the baby’s head puts pressure on your cervix to help with thinning and dilation.

Uterine contractions

Your uterus starts contracting when you go into labor. At first these contractions might be irregular and feel like cramps. These can be called Braxton Hicks. During labor, contractions become regular, are closer together, and get stronger.

Contractions push your baby down toward the vagina (birth canal).

They're measured by how often they happen and how strong they are.

Contractions can hurt a lot. Have a plan for pain management and think about comfort measures you would like to use.

Rupture of membranes

This is when your “water breaks”. The “water” is a sac of amniotic fluid around your baby.

The amniotic sac protects your baby during pregnancy and acts like a cushion for your body during labor.

Usually your water breaks on its own right before or during labor. Sometimes your doctor or midwife will break your water to help labor progress.

Learning what’s happening in your body can help you prepare for birth. As you enter the first stage of labor, remember you’re getting closer to meeting your baby!

Postpartum support

Help with postpartum needs like skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding support, and recovery.

Being a birth partner is a chance to support your loved one through a big life event. Remember, your job continues after birth. You might need support too; it's okay not to have all the answers. Your love and care cannot be replaced, but a doula can offer support for you and your loved one during labor and birth.

Labor comfort measures

Different times for different people

Things that can change how long it takes

Cervical thinning and dilation

Descent of the baby

Uterine contractions

Rupture of membranes

Educate yourself

Be calm

Be their voice

Help with comfort measures

Keep them hydrated

Offer emotional support

Be flexible

Capture the moments

Stay informed

Postpartum support