3 Essentials for Labor and Birth

Labor and Birth can be overwhelming! I recall with my first I was so tense and worried about what to expect. At the time, we had no clue that having a doula alongside was even an option.. funny huh! The first thing I should have done, that would have helped with my labor is Relaxation. It is so crucial that even when in pain we try and relax and not tense our bodies up. This can be done by meditation, music, breathing exercises, visualization and essential oils. When we tense up our labors can actually stall. Another very important essential is to EAT while in labor. It is so important to FUEL the body during labor. Labor is like running a marathon. Would you keep running without fuel?? I think not! Some great foods to eat during labor are peanut butter, oatmeal, yogurt, berries and crackers... heck even an applesauce packet! Drinking water is great, but if you can incorporate coconut water or even a gatorade works! So we're now relaxed, we have fueled our laboring bodies but things are still not going amazing... now is the time to talk about positioning! Getting into different positions during labor can really help ease those laboring pains. Walking, squatting, rocking, kneeling, hands and knees all are SO much better than just laying on your back during your full extent of labor! As a first time mama, I wish I would have known this! Knowledge is power!