As a Midwife who teaches Childbirth Education classes… here are my top tips for labour:

Doing good quality evidence based birth education will help you feel educated and empowered for your labour and birth. This is so important so you have strategies to help you work with pain in labour and know the pros and cons of your options to help you make informed decisions that feel right for you.

For many, there’s a period of early labour- a time of irregular and sometimes mild contractions prior to active labour. Heat packs are amazing to put on at this time. This is a time to rest, focus on nourishing foods and of course… hydrate! I always recommend having one large water bottle and one bottle of Franjos Kitchen hydration powder with water to have throughout early and active labour. 

Using upright positioning and forward leaning in labour can help to allow your baby to use gravity to descend and rotate in your pelvis. Moving intuitively in labour and swaying/ rocking etc is so helpful in labour.

Breathing is an integral part in labour, slow controlled, deep breathing can help to allow you to soften and relax your pelvic floor, which is so essential when birthing your baby. Practicing your breath in pregnancy to your labour playlist is a great way to prepare! 

Oxytocin, we commonly refer to as the love hormone, is your labour hormone! Setting up a beautiful oxytocin space for both at home and in hospital if you’re birthing in hospital is so essential. Think about the environment that helps you feel calm and safe and incorporate that into your labour space. Some great ideas for your physical space include darkness, fairy lights, LED candles, essential oils, affirmation cards and comfortable pillows. 

Your support team are so essential in labour. Having trust in those who are in your birth space is so important. Ensure you communicate your preferences with your support team.

Goodluck mama, I hope these quick labour tips help you on your birthing journey!