Doula Tips for Early Labor

You’re beginning to feel the comings and goings of what seemingly are contractions. Starting out first as a dull ache, then becoming something more solid in waves. Maybe not something you would yet describe as “pain” but more uncomfortable. What does this mean?

Well…. Your body is working. Your body is working hard, even in these early signs and symptoms. As the body begins to release labor hormones, you will develop more intensity. But the beginning phase of labor, or the latent phase, can last a while. In fact, for some it can last a day or 2 or more.

Here’s what you need to know:

  - Because this part of labor can last a while, my first recommendation is hydrate. Always hydrate well. Your uterus works at its most effective capacity when it is fueled with water and nutrition.

  - Eat. While you may not be overly hungry, nutrient dense foods and protein is what your body needs to not only sustain this phase of labor, but through the active and transitional part of labor, pushing (2nd stage) and the early postpartum period. Some favorite food combo’s I like to remind my clients of are nuts and cheese sticks, toasted cheese sandwich, apple and peanut butter, strawberry and banana yogurt smoothie, watermelon. These foods are rich in nutrients, some are packed with water which helps your hydration and these foods give you energy.

  - Use your birth ball. If your doula has given you recommendations of positions and exercises, use them. Otherwise, put on your favorite Netflix show and take 30 minutes to circle your hips widely, which gives great motion to your pelvis and pushing baby towards cervix. This is helpful to encourage labor, but also feels good to stretch and work out any muscles that are tensing in early labor.

  - Nap. I know- I just encouraged you to use the birth ball. But follow your body’s cues. Resting and working are both imperative for a healthy labor. When you feel that yawn coming, put some headphones on with some hypno-tracks or soft music, dim those lights and take a snooze!

  - Spend some time on all 4’s. By doing poses that allow the pelvis to relax and the belly to hang, such as hands-and-knees, it can help support baby getting into optimal position for labor, as well as feel good to your body which is working so hard. I often recommend this to clients while in the shower (put down a yoga mat to ease the knees) or even in the warm bathtub!

  - Spend some time understanding your body during these contractions. Are you tensing up your shoulders? Are you furrowing your brow? Are you holding your breath? Are you thinking negatively?  All of these can have a major effect on a persons labor and how one continues to labor effectively. Spend some time checking in with yourself. If you are having trouble relaxing, breathing and resting- ask your partner or your doula to sit beside you for a few contractions and give you feedback and support you. Having someone to remind you to focus, breathe and relax your shoulders can be very helpful in engaging your body and mind in a positive way for labor.

Early labor can be beautiful. It can be calming and relaxing- and dare I say, it can be welcoming! I hope these tips are helpful! Be well and happy early-laboring!!!