As an expecting parent, the thought of going into labor can be intimidating. There are so many unknowns, and it can be challenging to know how to prepare. One aspect of labor that is often overlooked but incredibly important is movement. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of movement during labor and how a birth doula can help you with their endless knowledge of positions and exercises for labor.
First and foremost, movement during labor can help ease pain and discomfort. When you move, you allow your body to release tension and that can help you feel more comfortable. It’s essential to find positions that work for you and your body. Every labor is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. That’s where a birth doula can be helpful. They are trained to know and suggest different positions and exercises to help you find what works for you.
Another benefit of movement during labor is that it can help progress labor. Movement helps the baby move down the birth canal, which can help labor to progress. When you are upright and moving, gravity can work in your favor. It’s essential to try different positions to see what works best for you. Squatting, lunging, and walking are just a few positions that can help you and your baby move through the stages of labor.
Movement can also help you stay more focused and present during labor. When you are in pain or feeling uncomfortable, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. By moving, you can focus on your body and your baby. It can also help distract you from the discomfort, allowing you to stay present in the moment.
Additionally, movement during labor can help reduce the risk of medical interventions. When you are in certain positions, such as lying on your back, it can be more challenging for the baby to move down the birth canal. This can increase the likelihood of medical interventions, such as forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, or even cesarean. By moving, you can help your baby move through the birth canal, reducing the risk of interventions.
Now that we’ve discussed the importance of movement during labor let’s talk about how a birth doula can help. A birth doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, informational, and physical support during labor and delivery. They are experts in helping you find positions and exercises that work for you and your body. They can suggest different positions from their wide range of labor position knowledge. They can also provide massage or counter pressure to help ease pain and discomfort.
A birth doula can also help you stay calm and focused during labor. They can provide reassurance and encouragement, helping you to feel more confident in your ability to give birth. They can help you develop a birth plan, including positions you want to try during labor, and can advocate for you if necessary.
In conclusion, movement during labor is incredibly important. It can help ease pain and discomfort, progress labor, keep you focused and present, and reduce the risk of medical interventions. A birth doula can be an invaluable resource in helping you find positions and exercises that work for you and your body. They can also provide emotional and physical support, helping you to feel more confident and prepared for labor and delivery. If you’re expecting, consider hiring a birth doula to help you navigate this exciting and challenging time.
