Coping with Slow Labor

We’ve heard about it. We think we KNOW about it. But labor is just one of those things that you don’t really know about until you have lived through it. Sure, I spent 8 out of the 9.5 months of my pregnancy glued to any program on TV that was about labor and birth (admit it; you watched every episode of A Baby Story on TLC 3 times over too!); but until you are actually in the moment – or, many moments – and experiencing labor, you have no idea how harrowing it can be.

Mothers around the globe have heard the stories of so-and-so being 5 minutes into labor and then having a baby in her arms, but these same mothers have also heard the stories of so-and-so being stuck in labor for well over 3 days. Slow labors are extremely taxing physically, emotionally and mentally and can cause a mother to completely break down and lose focus right when she needs it the most. If you’re an expecting mother, you should definitely take the following tips into account and mentally prepare yourself for a slow labor – just in case you aren’t one of the lucky ones who can pop out a baby in under 10 minutes.

Take it easy

Lessen anxiety now and reduce stress. There is some evidence that shows a correlation between a slow labor and stress. The less you worry, the more easy the laboring process “should’ be for you. Remember that if you are anxious and stressed, your baby will also be able to sense this – even when he or she is still snug as a bug in your womb. Be optimistic (your baby will be fine, your baby will be healthy) and be prepared for what may happen. Each and every single labor experience is unique and special.

Change your positiong

Changing your position can change your baby’s position. One of the primary reasons for a slow labor is due to your baby being poorly positioned in your womb. By walking around, changing the side of your body you are laying on, rocking your body, lunging, or sitting on a birthing ball, you can perhaps get that baby moving.

Go for a swim

And hey, if you haven’t been admitted to a hospital just yet, go for a swim! Swimming has proven for many women to successfully change their baby’s position (try to swim all throughout your pregnancy, too!).

Acupuncture

Stick a needle in it. What I mean by that is, try acupuncture! This did the trick for me (note: my water had broken 3 days previous). Within one hour of finishing my acupuncture appointment, I was in full labor and dilated to 4cm within an hour. I personally had a professional perform acupuncture on me, but you can also do this yourself or have your partner participate. Be sure to check out the “ho-ku” point for accupuncture as well as the “spleen 6” to kickstart your labor.

Bathe away

Get in the tub. Not only can you do a water birth in a tub, but just the water alone will help your body release the tension which may be further complicating matters. If you are suffering from pain caused by contractions, you will find that the heat will melt it away.

If you have any questions about slow labor, be sure to speak to your midwife or health care professional for further tips and advice, and make sure that you both agree on an appropriate birth plan should you experience a slow labor.