Child Development pages

Tips for Women in Labor

Some things you can do

• The early stages can take many hours. Don't rush to the hospital as soon as you feel a contraction - stay relaxed in a safe environment and save your mental and physical energy.
• Relax between the contractions. Save your energy for when you need it.
• Eat a light meal during the pre-labor period and continue to maintain your fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Keep a positive frame of mind. Focus on the positives - each contraction brings you closer to the birth of your baby.
• You cannot avoid the pain. Understanding the birth process and accepting labor as a natural and normal process is the first step towards pain management.
• Have confidence in yourself and trust your instincts.
• Wear a comfortable T-Shirt or nightie, and bring other items to make yourself feel more relaxed.
• Let go of you inhibitions - there is no need to be polite. If you need to, yell out.
• Maintain flexibility, know your options and keep communicating with the midwife or doctor.