Ideas for getting through labor

• Create a peaceful and soothing environment: dim the lights, bring an extra pillow.
• Bring magazines, card games, or crossword puzzles to keep your mind occupied.
• Have your labor coach give you lots of massages, especially on your lower back and feet.
• Bring a cassette or CD player with your favorite music.
• Take a warm bath or shower in your birthing room.
• Try cool compresses on your lower back and forehead.
• Do not be afraid to make noise - moan and groan during contractions.
• Bring pictures of family members for your nightstand.
• Keep moving: take long walks up and down the hallways or dance with your partner.
• Breathe, visualize and look to your labor coach for support and companionship.
• Try different positions. Sit, stand, squat, lie on your side, or crouch on your hands and knees.