How to Relax During Early Labor

Laboring during childbirth can be a mixture of excitement, anxiety and discomfort. The early stage of labor is often the longest, so you should focus on staying relaxed, positive and rested during this time. Once your baby is in your arms and gazing up at you, you’ll know that the whole experience was worth it.

Things You'll Need

• Radio
• Massage oil
• Television
• Water or ice chips

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Instructions

• 1

  Set the mood. Dim the lights, listen to relaxing music and do anything else that helps you stay calm.

• 2

  Practice a breathing exercise. At the beginning of each contraction, take a slow, deep inhale. Continue breathing slowly through your nose during the contraction, focusing your attention on the sound of the air passing through your nose and the feeling of your lungs expanding and contracting. At the end of the contraction, take another long, deep inhale and let it out slowly.

• 3

  Use a progressive relaxation technique. Close your eyes. Focus on one group of muscles at a time and visualize them relaxing, like they are melting. You can also tense one muscle group at a time, hold it for a count of 10 and then let the muscles relax.

• 4

  Stay positive. Put on a funny movie or talk about lighthearted topics with your partner. Laughter helps ease the situation and keeps you upbeat.

• 5

  Go for a stroll. Walking can help your labor progress, as well as keep you distracted during early labor.

• 6

  Ask your partner to massage areas of your body. This is not only relaxing, it can also act as a natural pain and tension reliever. If a massage is too much, a hot water bottle may feel nice on your lower back.

• 7

  Take a warm, not hot, shower or bath. This can be relaxing and soothing.