LABOR CHEAT SHEET
Early Labor Active Labor
(stay home) (go to hospital/birth center)
contractions are irregular or far apart contractions are closer together and sensations
contractions are mild and manageable are stronger
can't talk through contractions
can talk through contractions
laboring person may be more serious/withdrawn
laboring person feels energetic, excited, optimistic
good time to try comfort measures and coping
good time to ignore contractions, use distraction
techniques
COMFORT MEASURES
MASSAGE HAND MASSAGE BREATHING
Kneading (squeeze & release) Apply pressure in one place Count in/out to four
Hand-over-hand stroking Walk/circle thumbs on palm Visualize colors of relaxation and
Counterpressure "Break the Popsicle" tension entering/exiting body
Scalp Massage Massage/pull each finger Repeat mantras/affirmations
Use firm pressure Accupressure between Low sounds w/loose, relaxed jaw
Massage tools thumb/first finger Breathe at natural pace
BE MINDFUL GET MOVING OTHER TIPS
Stay in present moment Walk Hip-squeeze
Relax and enjoy breaks in Slow-dance Play music
between contractions Rock/sway Stay hydrated
Don't replay previous Pelvic Tilt (cat/cow) Shower/bath
contraction or rehearse the Lunge Hot/cold on lower back
next one Squat Cool washcloth on forehead
Take one contraction at a time Listen to your body! Eat small snacks if able
AFFIRMATIONS
I am relaxed and calm. I will meet my baby soon.
My body was made for this. I trust my body and this process.
I can do anything for a minute. I am stronger than this contraction.
© 2020 Babymoon Inn. All Rights Reserved. [Link]
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR LABOR BAG
This handheld massager has Bring a charged, wireless Remember to stay hydrated The tennis ball is especially
an ergonomic holder, making speaker and your favorite during labor. Birth partners, effective when rolled on the
massage relaxing for the playlist or station to keep the offer the laboring person sips lower back to provide counter
laboring person and effortless mood in the room peaceful of water occasionally even if pressure during contractions
for the birth partner. or comfortable. they don't ask! or to combat back labor.
Scalp massage is an excellent Laboring people often clench Breathe in peppermint for nausea It is
Thecommon for temperature
tennis ball is especially to
their fists to relieve pain by and citrus for energy. Use clary sage fluctuate
tool for promoting relaxation effective when rolledAon
during labor. fan will
the
activating pressure points. with a carrier oil on the abdomen, keep her cool and allow the birth
and relieving stress. lower back to provide counter
feet, or palms to stimulate
Stress balls provide a neutral partner
pressure toduring
be present and hold
contractions.
contractions (use only in labor).
object to squeeze. space.
Sucking on hard candy helps Honey sticks contain a natural Check to see if your birthing Use lip balm to prevent
keep the throat and mouth sugar that provides a quick burst location has exercise/birth chapped or dry lips while
moist as the laboring person of energy during labor. balls available for use during breathing through
breathes through contractions. labor. If not, bring one! contractions.
DON'T FORGET!
Bring personal care items (hair brush, shampoo, tooth brush, etc.) for both the pregnant person AND their partner.
Both will want comfortable clothes to wear during labor and an outfit to wear home. Pack high-protein snacks
and a second water bottle for the birth partner. If your place of birth has tubs or showers, pack something for
laboring in the water (a bikini top or sports bra for mom, a swim suit or swim trunks for her partner).
FIND OUR FAVORITE ITEMS AT
[Link]/SHOP/BABYMOONINN
