How to Stay Relaxed in Early Labor

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Categories: How Tos | Parenting | Pregnancy

  • Staying relaxed in early labor can help you conserve your energy for the big task you have ahead. Learn how to stay relaxed in early labor to help make your birth experience the best possible.

  • Disclaimer

    The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.

  • Introduction

    The early stages of labor can last for a few hours, or can stretch to several days.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stages-of-labor/PR00106 During this early labor period, it is important to stay relaxed and become mentally prepared for the big task you have in front of you. You will probably be excited and nervous, especially if this is your first baby. Staying relaxed and conserving your energy can help make the birth process much smoother and allow you to meet your new little one in the best manner possible.

  • Step 1: Proactively Prepare for Labor

    Make adequate preparation for labor. The last thing you should be thinking about when you go into labor is packing for the hospital. Try to get as many things prepared early in your third trimester as possible so you will be prepared whenever you go into labor.

    Things to prepare include:

    1. Suitcase for hospital:
      1. Clothes for the hospital and for returning home for you and your baby
      2. Personal care items like your toothbrush
      3. Video camera, extra film
      4. Non-perishable snacks
      5. Any items you want to use in labor
    2. Your Home
      1. Nursery
      2. Baby Items
    3. Arrangements for older children

  • Step 2: Follow you Doctors Instructions

    Find out your doctor’s plan for when you go into labor. Usually they will advise you to start timing your contractions and will give you a rough estimate of when you should come into the hospital. If you feel too much pain or feel something is out of the ordinary when your labor starts, always contact your doctor immediately or go to the hospital directly.

  • Step 3: Use Relaxation Techniques

    Consider using the following relaxation techniques to stay relaxed in early labor:

    1. Massage- Have your loved ones give you a gentle massage to help you stay relaxed, relieve stress, relax your muscles and lesson any pain.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/massage/SA00082
    2. Distraction
      1. Take a Walk
      2. Watch a Movie
      3. Take a warm shower, or soak in a tub (only if your water has not broken)
      4. Sleephttp://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/labor-signs?page=2
      5. Listen to relaxing music
      6. Take slow, deep breaths
      7. Move around
      8. Eat a small meal and drink plenty of liquidshttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stages-of-labor/PR00106

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