Empowering Labor Preparation and Coping Strategies: A Guide for Moms

Bringing a new life into the world is a journey filled with so many emotions—joy, excitement, and, inevitably, some nervousness. Whether you’re a first-time mom or just want a different experience with your second child (or 3rd or 4th), understanding and preparing and Practicing for labor is a crucial step in your journey to an empowered birth. This guide is tailored to provide informative, supportive, and empowering insights as you prepare for the life-changing experience of childbirth.

Understanding the Mental Aspect of Labor

Labor goes beyond the physical—it’s a mental and emotional journey. Addressing common fears and anxieties associated with childbirth is the first step in mental preparation. We always say that when you are scared of something, the best thing you can do is educate yourself on that thing. Nervous about pushing? Look into different pushing positions and the benefits of those positions. Scared about tearing during delivery? Research about all the things you can do to help your perineum be ready for that ring of fire. Things could include perineal massage, warm water, olive oil during pushing, etc. 

Cultivating a positive mindset through affirmations and mental exercises allows you to approach labor with confidence, knowing that your mind is a powerful ally in this process. Surround yourself with positive and empowering birth stories. Some women may try to tell you all about their negative experiences, but know that your story is not theirs. You are preparing mentally and physically and what happened to them, most likely won’t happen to you.  

Practicing Partner Involvement in Labor 

Your partner’s role during labor is invaluable. They can actively help you practice for labor by doing pressure point practice, massage, and working on encouraging and supportive words that you’ll want to hear during labor. Engaging in these practices that help both of you cope with the upcoming journey will be so valuable when it comes to labor time. Open communication about expectations, fears, and shared preparation experiences creates a supportive environment, strengthening your bond for the challenges ahead. Also communicate that you may change your mind for what you want in labor. You won’t know until that moment. But communicate to your spouse/partner that you want them close and want their involvement. 

Meditation Techniques for Coping Through Contractions

Meditation serves as a potent tool for managing contractions. Explore mindfulness, guided imagery, and deep-breathing techniques to navigate the intensity of labor. We love the Freya app that counts your breaths for contractions. Focusing on your breathing can get you through a contraction so well! Incorporating meditation and breathwork into your daily routine is vital in preparing for labor. It helps to ensure you’re well-versed in these calming practices when labor begins.

General Tips for Labor

We might sound like a broken record, but local birth classes are invaluable for comprehending the physiological aspects of labor, providing a foundation for informed decision-making. And you have heard us time and time again talking about considering the personalized guidance and support of a doula for a more confident and supported birthing experience.

We know that labor may seem overwhelming and a monumental task, but we know that women who prepare themselves and are practicing for labor tend to have great outcomes! There is now downside to preparing yourself. It will be hard, but it will be worth it!

We hope this little guide was a help for you! We’ve created a little Labor Practice Checklist for you to print off so you can look at it everyday!

Leave a comment on something we can write about that will help you!

Remember, this journey is about your strength and capability. You are not alone. You can build a village for yourself and we’re happy to be a small part of that!