SECTION 1 – INTRODUCTION

There are many things you and your partner can to do to make your labour more comfortable. Being able to relax, or at least release tension in your body, is the key to managing your pain and increasing your sense of control during labour.

This class discusses relaxation techniques, massage, visualization, breathing and effective positions for labour and birth.

This class also includes:

Section 2 – What should I know about comfort measures?

Comfort measures in labour? This might sound like a contradiction in terms: the words ‘comfort’ and ‘labour’ in the same sentence! The fact is that labour is not ‘all pain all the time.’

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Section 3 – How can I relax during labour?

Practicing relaxation techniques will help you in labour. Stress hormones can make your labour longer, and tense muscles can cause more pain. Releasing tension is the key to managing your pain and your sense of control during labour. Learn and practice relaxation skills and routines on your own and with your partner.

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Section 4 – What other things will help my labour?

There are a number of things you can do to cope with labour, these include:

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Section 5 – What should my partner be doing?

Your support person plays a key role in your labour and birth experience. There are many things your partner can do to help you feel more comfortable so labour can proceed as smoothly as possible.

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Section 6 – What are the best positions for labour and birth?

The most effective positions in labour are those that allow you to lean forward, use gravity, and open the pelvis. It can be helpful to change positions frequently – every 20 to 30 minutes during labour. This may decrease your pain and help your labour to progress faster.

Often when a mom changes positions, her contractions will feel stronger, as the new position can help the body labour more efficiently. She may need extra support and reassurance as she adjusts to the more intense contractions.

To help the baby move down during the second (pushing) stage of labour, try positions which …

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