News

Postpartum difficulties are not often discussed. As wonderful as welcoming a new baby into the world is, it is also a very hard transition for a mother both mentally and physically. Of course, there are many more life demands that come with taking care of a newborn, but also, there are many demands and pressures that are put on your body after giving birth. After giving birth, there are different parts of a woman's body that have gone through an extreme amount of stress and change. You want to make sure that you have all the necessities ready after childbirth to ensure the most comfortable postpartum recovery. We have put together a list of some of the top must-have products to help new moms feel good, heal quickly, and get their body’s back to how they were before having a child. Must-Have Products to Ease Recovery These are eight different products we recommend using postpartum that are sure to help you with a successful recovery. 1. Maternity Maxi Pads It is extremely common for both vaginal bleeding and vaginal discharge to occur after giving birth. Typically, your body will continue to expel this discharge for several weeks after giving birth, and using Maxi pads will help ensure you stay comfortable and dry. There are several brands of Maxi Pads that are designed especially for postpartum use. Using a Maxi pad will help with any bleeding or discharge that occurs after giving birth. Using tampons or menstrual cups after giving birth is not recommended and can actually cause more damage to your healing uterus. Ensuring that you are stocked up on plenty of Maxi Pads for your return home after giving birth will help make you more comfortable and stop any unneeded embarrassing accidents. 2. Mesh Underwear In addition to having maternity pads, it is also a good idea to have several pairs of disposable underwear too. Often, especially right after childbirth, menstrual bleeding or discharge can be very heavy and may even leak through to your underwear. So the easiest thing to do is to wear disposable mesh underwear so you can throw them away after wearing them. Mesh underwear is very stretchy and breathable; they can easily fit the large maxi pad and give you at least a little more comfort. 3. Peri Rinse Bottle Using a peri rinse bottle will help you go to the bathroom more easily after giving birth. After childbirth, and more specifically if you gave birth vaginally, there are many changes that occur to the vaginal opening. Generally, your vagina will be swollen and stretched after a natural birth and will likely be very tender. The peri bottle is used to skirt warm water to the area before, during, and after urinating. Since it may be a little harder to start the process, squirting warm water in the vagina area will help you relax and start peeing. While you are peeing, if you continue to squirt the water, it will help relieve the stinging sensation some mothers experience while urinating. And then, after you are finished, you can use the rinse bottle to clean the area instead of wiping with toilet paper which may be sore. 4. Ice Pack Another ideal piece of equipment to ease your postpartum comfort is an ice pack. After childbirth, there will be a lot of swelling in your vagina, and an ice pack will help reduce some of this swelling. You can simply place the ice pack over the region, which should also help give you some pain relief as well. Applying ice to the area is extremely effective, especially within the first 24 hours after giving birth. 5. Pain Medicine After giving birth, you will likely be sore in all different places. Using an oral pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with both reducing swelling and easing your pain so that you can move around more easily. In general, both these pain relief products are safe to use after giving birth and while breastfeeding, but we recommend you talk to a doctor first before taking them. 6. Epsom Salts Having an Epsom salt bath is a great way to soothe different types of pain and popular for women healing from childbirth. You can either soak in a bath with Epsom salt or use a sitz bath that rests over the top of the toilet bowl and used to soak the perineum area for around 15 minutes. The Epsom salts should help with any aches and discomfort in that area. 7. A Postpartum Girdle After childbirth, your body has gone through many changes, and using a girdle to help recover and ease the pain is a very helpful tool. Bellefit has multiple different girls styles to choose from that may help with lower back pain and posture after giving birth. Also, wearing a girdle can help with stabilizing your pelvic floor and giving your abdominal muscles more support. 8. Donut Pillow A donut-shaped pillow is specially designed for postpartum use. They will help you sleep and rest more easily and allow you to be more comfortable after giving birth. You can use the donut pillow to sit on while propping yourself up and easing the pressure on your perineum. Also, you can use it to prop up your baby while you are holding them or breastfeeding them so they are not putting too much pressure on your abdomen. Be Prepared For the past 9 months, you and your family have been awaiting the birth of your child and it is all very exciting to get things ready for the baby’s arrival. However, equally as important is being ready for your recovery as a mother after carrying and giving birth to your baby. Make sure that you have all the essentials you need ready at home for when your baby arrives. Being prepared with the products we mentioned above can relieve a lot of the stress and discomfort that will occur after giving birth.

Swaddling is a recommended way to soothe your baby. It is an excellent hack for parents of small infants. Swaddling is a technique in which a baby is wrapped tightly with a blanket and is shown to help them sleep better. Wrapping your baby nice and snuggly is supposed to resemble the warmth and comfort of the womb. When done correctly, swaddling is a safe and effective way to calm down your baby and promote sleep. How to Swaddle Correctly There are a few simple steps that parents should follow to ensure that their baby is being wrapped up properly before you place them down to rest. If swaddled correctly, you can be more confident that your child is safe when they are sleeping. We will go over these steps and some tips to ensure the safety of your child. Spread out your blanket on a soft flat surface and slightly fold in one corner Place your baby down on their back, with their head poking out the top of the folded corner Keeping their arms inside, wrap one side (left or right) of the blanket over the top of your babies body, ensuring that their head and neck are out of the blanket Tuck that corner of the blanket between their body and opposite arm Pull the bottom corner of the blanket up over the baby's feet and body and tuck to one side of their body Fold over the remaining side of the blanket and tuck underneath their body Following these simple steps will help guide you in how to effectively and safely swaddle your baby so they can sleep better. In addition to the swaddling procedure, there are a few key things to remember as well to ensure it is being done correctly. Things to Remember When Swaddling your Baby When you are swaddling your baby, you want to wrap the blanket tightly but not too tight. The blanket should feel secure around their body but not overly tight. When you wrap the baby's legs, you want their hips to be loose so they can move them slightly. They should be able to bend their legs. You will want to be careful not to restrain their hips; this can cause damage and possible hip dysplasia. Another thing you want to keep in mind is the type of blanket you are using to swaddle your baby. There are specific blankets made for swaddling that are thin and breathable. They are easy to wrap and won’t be too warm for the baby. The blanket should be a baby-sized blanket that is not too large and bulky. One that can wrap entirely around your baby and keep its shape throughout the night. How to Put your Swaddled Baby to Sleep Once your baby is wrapped up in their swaddle blanket, you want to place them down into their crib or napping area safely. Firstly, it is recommended that you place your baby down flat on their backs. This position is safe and will reduce the risk of SIDS. Monitor your baby while they are sleeping, so you ensure they do not roll over. It is also vital that you do not have other loose blankets or cushions in the crib. Having loose objects in their crib could also put your baby at risk of suffocating while sleeping. Similarly, you don't want any other hard object in their bed either, which could also be harmful. Lastly, since swaddling may increase the chances that your baby overheats, ensure that you are monitoring them and look for signs of sweating or flushed cheeks. The blanket you are using may be too thick for swaddling. When do You Swaddle your Baby? Swaddling is appropriate for babies up until they are about 3 or 4 months old. It is intended for newborn babies that have minor mobility capabilities to help them calm down and get used to being out of the womb. Once a baby is able to roll over on their own, it is no longer a good idea to swaddle them. They are more likely to roll over in their sleep, and if they are swaddled, this could be very dangerous. Once your baby is able to roll over on their own, they may be used to and still need that tight feeling in order to fall asleep quickly. When a baby is no longer being swaddled, there are some ways that you can still create this comfort and help them with this transition to sleeping freely. There are unique sleeping sacks that are made for older infants that still wrap around their feet so that they are snug but still allowing their arms to be free. Why Should I Swaddle My Baby? There are a few great reasons why swaddling can be beneficial for both you and your baby. Swaddling often helps babies fall asleep and allows them to stay asleep for longer periods. It helps to refrain them from their natural startle movements, where otherwise they may wake themselves up. Wrapping your baby at night has also been shown to calm down colicky babies. Even if your baby is not sleeping, it helps to soothe them and keep them relaxed. Ultimately, swaddling your baby will help your baby get more rest and relax more easily. Additionally, if your baby gets more rest, as a parent, you have more time for yourself. The extra time your baby spends sleeping will allow you to either get rest yourself, spend on some much-needed you time, or possibly give you more time to cook healthy meals. New mothers will have more time to focus on themselves and get their minds and body back to what they used to be. Maybe you can splurge on a new outfit. Or perhaps you might want to buy one of Bellefit's multiple Girdles to find a design that works for you and help boost your body confidence. Wearing a girdle or a new outfit can do wonders for a new mom's confidence and help you be more you. All in all, if your newborn baby rests well, you will also have more time for yourself. You deserve it.

As a new mom, all the attention is, of course, on your newborn baby, and for a good reason. However, if you help yourself and take care of yourself too, this will, in turn, be beneficial for your baby and new family too. Being a new parent is filled with new surprises and ever-changing responsibilities. Still, it is also a time to enjoy and remember everyone is different, so don’t worry too much about doing anything wrong. One important thing to remember is to take time for yourself, and here are just a few simple ways to give yourself some well-deserved self-care. 1. Eat Well Remember that as a new mother, you want to make sure you are taking care of your new baby as well as your own body. Make sure that you are making time for yourself to eat properly and drink lots of water. Specifically, if you are breastfeeding, you are giving away much of your nutrients to your new baby so that they can grow and develop, so you, too, need to do the same. A woman who is breastfeeding will be burning more calories than normal, so you want to ensure that you are getting enough calorie intake. More than ever, you do want to make sure that you are eating nutritious foods, especially if you will be passing it on through breastmilk. Making food does not have to be complex or take too much time since, of course, you will be busy. Eat foods that are high in fiber, like whole grains. Also, make sure that you are incorporating fruits and vegetables, and proteins. Boil an egg or have a bowl of fruit for an easy but sturdy meal. Another great idea is to prepare your meals ahead of time; when you do have a bit of time, you can put together some easy pre-cooked meals for the week to save you some time. On top of great food, make sure you are staying hydrated so that both your baby and yourself are getting enough liquid. 2. Prioritize your Comfort As a new mother, you will now be in charge of a small human and you will inevitably do anything to keep them healthy and comfortable. However, you need to make sure you are not ignoring your own needs. Take some time even if it is for a short period every day to pamper yourself, relax, and splurge on your own wants and needs. Even getting up in the morning and giving yourself time to do your hair or spend a few extra minutes in the shower will help improve your mood. When you leave the house, put on some clothing that makes you feel confident. Try our girdle from Bellefit to help you with your body confidence when you step out as a new mom. It might be something as simple as watching your favorite show, spending money on a new outfit, or a cozy blanket. If you put in just a little effort for yourself then it can make a big difference to both you and your baby’s well-being. 3. Movement Moving or exercising may sound like a daunting task. A new mom might feel a little uncomfortable in their new skin and feel drained from all the new mom's duties. Moving your body is excellent to help slowly get your body back to what it used to be. For the first few weeks after giving birth, you do not want to do any intense workouts but some slow movements will help begin the process. Maybe you will get out for a short walk or try some simple yoga moves. If you take a few minutes to move your muscles and get the blood flow going, this can help you feel good and begin to reclaim your body as you remember it. Everybody is different and it may take you a little more time after giving birth to feel comfortable moving, but take your time and listen to your body. Move if you want and rest when you need it. 4. Be Okay with Saying No Having a new baby is an exciting experience but also a very personal and intimate one. Of course, you may want to share this experience with close family and friends but it is okay to say no sometimes, even to those who are close. Be sure to draw a line when it comes to visitors, the last thing you want is to be over-stressed when you don’t need to be. Having visitors with a new baby can be great and helpful, but it can also be overwhelming especially for a new mother that is trying to adjust to new things and spend time with their new baby. One tip is to really listen to your feelings when it comes to scheduling people coming to visit or that want to meet your new baby. It is okay to say no. Your new mother's experience is uniquely yours and you may find yourself changing your thoughts about how little or how much you want to see other people and have extra bodies in your house. Listen to yourself and decide on what you feel comfortable with, be okay with saying no. Take Care of Yourself Taking care of yourself as a new mom is important, for not only yourself but also for your new family as well. Just because you are spending a lot more attention on someone else does not mean you should ignore your own wants and needs. In fact, all the more reason to make sure you are being taken care of as well which will further benefit your new baby. Hopefully, these simple tips will give you a few ideas of where you can turn your attention to your own needs, even if only briefly. Take care of your physical body as well as your peace of mind. Take time for you.

Having a massage anytime is both relaxing and helps with tension release. Who doesn’t love a good massage? Getting a postpartum massage is equally as relaxing and very beneficial for relaxation, pampering, and healing alike. After giving birth, a new mother definitely deserves a soothing massage that will also lend to many benefits as well. Within the first twelve weeks postpartum, a massage has shown to be an excellent way for some much-needed healing for the women, and here is why. What are the Benefits? First and foremost, like any great massage, a postpartum massage will help ease the muscles that have been worked and overworked both during pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, a postpartum massage will also alleviate tension and lift your mood. Like any body massage, having a massage postpartum will relax and destress your body and mind and will release pain in your muscles. If a new mother is looking to get a massage, you will need to make sure the masseuse knows that you have given birth. There are some reasons, like having a cesarean delivery, then a postpartum massage may not be safe, so make sure to consult your doctor as well. On top of all these incredible benefits, and why so many love a good massage, there are some more specific benefits, especially for postpartum massage. Hormone Regulation Body massages and physical touch may help regulate hormone imbalances. A woman who has just given birth will still have extreme shifts in her hormone levels which in turn makes her body do a bunch of odd things. A body massage can help return balance to your hormones. Plus, essential oils and scented lotions can also help increase your mood. Reduce Swelling A massage can also help reduce swelling in the body that generally occurs when a woman is pregnant and even increasingly so after labor. Having a massage can help with circulating fluids that cause swelling within the body. This will, in turn, allow a new mother to be more comfortable in their body, especially after some significant physical changes. Reduce Depression and Anxiety Muscle massages and essential oils also are beneficial in helping to reduce both depression and anxiety. For a new mother, these emotions may also be heightened, and a massage is an excellent way to help keep these stressors at bay. Increase Milk Production It has been shown that having a massage can also help increase milk production for new mothers. This may also have to do with improved hormone imbalances. Some mothers have trouble with milk production, and added stress may also hinder this process. A massage could help improve milk supply for a variety of reasons. Increase Sleep Quality A massage will also allow your body to relax and, in turn, help you get a better night's sleep. A new mother will likely struggle with getting efficient sleep, a reality of parenting, but if a massage can help you have better sleep, that is definitely a great reason to try. Uterus Contraction Getting a specific uterus massage has also shown some benefits in helping to reduce the size of a woman's uterus after giving birth. This process, however, should only be performed by professionals and should be discussed with your doctor beforehand. When do I get a Postpartum Massage? If you receive a specific postpartum massage, it is generally within the first twelve weeks after a mother has given birth. Some mothers feel more ready after a few weeks, and others will enjoy a light massage the day after childbirth; it all depends on how you and your body are feeling. There is no exact time recommended, and both can be highly beneficial. There are, however, some exceptions; if a new mom gave birth via cesarean, then there are a few more things to consider. Generally, after having a c-section, you will want to wait a short period for your scars to heal, so we advise you to speak to a doctor prior to getting a massage. Many new moms will get a massage numerous times following their pregnancy. The frequency of getting your massages is also a personal preference, some like to have massages consistently, and others enjoy a few sporadic massage sessions. No matter how often, you are likely to enjoy some of the benefits of getting a postpartum massage. What should I expect with my Postpartum Massage? A massage is an experience set up for the client, and so it should be set up to how you are going to enjoy the occasion best. Like other massages, you may want to have a massage in the comfort of your home, mainly to keep your newborn baby close by, or you may wish for the time to get out of the house and have some alone time. After carrying a baby and giving birth, your body will feel different, and maybe specific areas will need more or less attention. All these details and preferences can be discussed with your massage therapist so that you are sure to have the best possible experience. There are different styles of massage that are appropriate for postpartum massage; both deep tissue or a lighter relaxing massage will be helpful, and all depends on a mother's preference. There are also some women who enjoy foot reflexology as well, especially after having a lot of weight and pressure on their feet and back throughout the nine-month pregnancy. A postpartum massage, similar to any other massage experience, should be calming and therapeutic, so it is up to you to find a peaceful space and type of massage that you like best. Satisfaction of Postpartum Massages Postpartum massages are an excellent way for new mothers to unwind, reduce tension in their bodies, and help to slowly get back to normal. For new moms, getting a massage can help with physical benefits as well as getting back to feeling more like you. Another way to help boost your confidence and get used to your new body after giving birth is to try wearing one of our girdles. There are many different styles to choose from that help shape your body after birth and are explicitly designed for new mothers. Giving birth is challenging and puts a lot of pressure on a woman's body. A new mother deserves to relax and to look and feel her best, especially after carrying a baby.

Let’s be honest, having a baby isn’t as easy and comfortable as the media would like us to believe. You see these beautiful girls in commercials having babies looking flawless and snatched after delivering their baby and it is simply not true. Having a baby is hard work for your body and your mind. You made it through labor and all the pain throughout it and now what? There is this little human that you and your partner need to take care of but how can you survive this stage of chaos? You might experience pain, swelling, and more after you give birth and all you want to do is rest but a baby needs attention 24/7 a day. Being a mother and away from your baby isn’t as easy as it is for fathers. So you are there around your child all the time breastfeeding, changing diapers, calming it when it cries and you think all I want to do is sleep but it seems impossible. If you wanna know how to survive the newborn stage then you are at the right place. What is The Newborn Stage? The newborn stage is the phase from birth to two or three months after. Your baby may start to smile, raise their head, take objects and follow objects with their eyes. This stage is hard for most mothers as it is right after labor when their own body is sore and might be swollen and they need to take care of the baby. As the baby has to get used to living outside of the womb it is a whole new world for them and it takes a while to get into a rhythm with your baby. The stress is understandable and there are ways to make this stage a little easier. Ways to Survive the Newborn Stage Think About Having The Crib Next to Your Bed If your baby wakes up at night you want to calm it down right away and not run around the house first. Having your baby close can help to get your baby to sleep better as well, as it is close to you and your partner. Think about taking turns with who wakes up to check on the baby and who gets to sleep in. Expect to Feed The Baby Around The Clock Babies need to eat around the clock so waking up at night to a crying baby won’t be a rarity. Prepare yourself to make that easier and quicker for you. After a while, you can also ask your partner to take over and feed pumped breast milk to get more sleep for yourself. It’s teamwork after all. Ask Your Doctor for Help if Breastfeeding Hurts Breastfeeding might be a little uncomfortable at first but shouldn’t cause pain. Try to reposition your baby to see if the pain eases. Otherwise, consult a doctor as this might have different reasons. Take Naps When Your Baby Naps As your sleep schedule might be all kinds of messed up after giving birth and your baby might not let you sleep through the night, you should sleep and take naps whenever your baby does. As you will need the rest for yourself. Get YOU Time in It sounds silly but making time just for yourself is actually incredibly important to survive the newborn stage. With all the new things happening around you and your body trying to recover, rest and some time away are needed. Ask family or your partner to lend a hand with your baby. As always it is not selfish to take time for yourself. Recharging and getting your time in should be on your daily schedule. Your body just worked really hard and might be sore and swollen after labor, hormones change and feelings are all over. Do whatever you feel like you need during that time of day that you have to yourself. Check-in With Your Feelings Many women are affected by postpartum depression which can go undetected for a while. Check-in with how you are feeling. A new baby means a new routine, new tasks, and a new schedule that you have to figure out yet. It can make you feel angry, frustrated, and even lonely sometimes. Talk to someone you trust, that might be your partner, a parent, or a friend, and tell them how you feel. Sharing emotions is good for your soul and might take some of the weight off your shoulders. Talking about your problems can reduce stress which makes it easier to rest at night. If you think you might suffer from postpartum depression, call your doctor or a therapist to get the help you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and speak honestly about what you are feeling and experiencing. It’s different for everyone and you are not alone. Split the work with your partner As this is a team effort, let your partner do tasks like changing diapers, cleaning, cooking, laundry, waking up at night to get a bottle, etc. Mothers often feel like they are responsible for everything but it is completely acceptable to let your partner do half of the work. Many tasks around the house might feel like too much for you after labor and can be easily done by your partner. When does the newborn stage end? It’s hard to answer when your child gets easier but usually around three months your baby will get used to a routine and things might seem less impossible. As the baby grows it won’t need food every hour and can also sleep longer during the night. Summary It won’t be easy to get rest during the newborn stage but there is light at the end of the tunnel and things will get better. Having a new baby is always hard at first as you still have to establish a schedule and rhythm around the baby. It is therefore important that you take care of your own body as well. Getting enough rest might look like asking someone to watch the baby for a few hours or letting your partner help with chores. It will be hard but everything will work out in the end.

When you are pregnant many things change inside your body, you might have morning sickness, back pain, cravings, mood swings, swollen ankles and not to forget that there is another human growing inside your belly. With changing hormones your immune system can get weakened as well. Getting sick while pregnant is not great and in some cases might have consequences for your baby. That’s why it is important to take care of yourself and your body. There are tips and tricks to boost your immune system and make you more resistant to illnesses. Why is my Immune System Weakening While Pregnant? The reason for that is simple. Your immune system is responsible for attacking foreign things like bacteria, viruses, etc but as your baby is a foreign invader as well, your immune system would attack it if there would be a change happening. Research has found that the timing of the immune system change is exactly timed to prevent the body from rejecting the fetus. Getting sick while pregnant is not great and in some cases might have consequences for your baby. What Can I Do to Prevent Getting Sick in The First Place? Taking care of yourself while pregnant is very important. Your body needs extra care as it is going through extreme change and works hard to develop your baby and keep you alive. It is crucial to invest in your health. This can mean different things such as taking time for yourself to rest, eating healthy food, staying in bed to sleep, meditating, etc. Listen to what your body tells you. Taking time for yourself is for sure not selfish. Eating nutritious food with many vitamins and minerals is important and these two ingredients are directly linked to a strong immune system. Don’t forget to exercise and get fresh air to keep your body healthy. There is also the option of avoiding heavily crowded places and washing your hands regularly to avoid catching any bugs. Ways to Boost my Immune System Get Enough Rest Yes, sleep and rest are important and might even be one of the most important steps to take. Letting your body recharge and giving it a break from all the stress and hard work of the day is crucial for the body to work properly and protect you and the baby. Your immune system, like all the other tasks your body has to perform, only works with a good amount of rest. Drink Enough Water Honestly, water might actually be the cure to many things. It for sure is for staying healthy. Drink 2-3 liters of water throughout the day. Water is recommended but tea can also be counted. Coffee, sweet drinks like sodas, and energy drinks do unfortunately not fall under the ‘healthy’ category and should be avoided. It helps to have a water bottle or a big glass of water that you measure your water consumption in. If you have a one-liter water bottle you only need to drink two to three of those a day and you can bring it wherever you go and measure your water intake even on the road. Eat Nutritious Food You are what you eat! Again this turns out to be very true. You can’t be healthy and boost your immune system only from burgers and fries. It is important to eat vitamins and minerals that can be found in fruits and vegetables. Try eating protein and a low sugar diet and rather choose complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal, wheat bread, quinoa, whole grains, beans, etc. Eating a balanced diet and a good variety of fruit and vegetables can also help you recover way faster if you get sick. But don’t worry, eating a burger once in a while won’t harm you or your baby at all. Sometimes it’s important to eat that comfort food for your mental health and overall happiness so don’t restrict. As long as you switch things up and mix fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and protein you can allow yourself to have a cheat day! Think About Vitamins As your body needs especially many vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system up and running and your body healthy there is the option to take additional vitamins. It is hard to eat as many of them as needed for two people. They don’t replace the vitamins you take in with food but can further help you stay healthy. Talk to your doctor about which vitamins would be beneficial for your situation. Exercise Regularly Exercising on a regular basis is important for so many aspects of life. Not only does it increase the blood flow, lowers stress, and strengthens antibodies, it also makes the immune cells perform efficiently. Avoid Stress Stress for most is difficult to define and you need to listen to your own body and health to see what works for you and what does not. Being stressed out and nervous can weaken our immune system. The stress hormone called corticosteroid in your body can block and stop your immune system from working properly and you can get sick more easily. Coming back to taking care of your body, it is important to check in with yourself to see if you need rest. Think about taking on less work while pregnant if that makes you feel better. Remember it’s not selfish to take time for yourself. In conclusion Being pregnant is often referred to as a miracle yet sometimes while you are in that stage it might not feel like that. It’s important to listen to your own body and do what feels right for you. With these steps above like eating healthy, drinking lots of water, getting rest and exercising regularly, and more you can boost your immune system and keep yourself and your baby healthy and strong. If you choose to take vitamins, ask your doctor or nurse about it and check what will work for your body.

An epidural is a great medicine for reducing the pain during the delivery. It is essentially a small needle and a tiny tube that administers anesthesia into your lower back. The needle is then removed, but the tube remains inside until the medication goes fully inside. After 15 minutes, it will essentially numb your body from your belly button to your legs while keeping you alert and sensitive to pressure. This allows you to continue to push with minimized discomfort during the birth. You can receive an epidural at any time during your delivery, from beginning to middle, to end. The amount of medication received through the epidural can be both increased and decreased throughout the delivery. The doctor will numb the area where the needle goes in so you should only feel a slight stinging sensation. However, you will generally feel very little pain during the injection except for some mild pressure at the site of the insertion. Epidurals are generally very safe procedures and severe complications are exceedingly uncommon. However, there are some lingering effects that all moms should expect if they received an epidural during their pregnancy. Common Side Effects Initial soreness As the epidural wears off after the delivery, you will experience some back cramps and vaginal pain. It's also common to have a small bruise and sore skin in that area. However, both these effects rarely linger for more than 1-2 days after the birth. In the meantime, ice usually helps deal with the soreness. Severe Headaches On some occasions, the needle from the epidural pierces the spinal cord which can cause splitting headaches if left untreated. If this side effect arises, you should discuss treatment with your physician. Difficulty Urinating Since an epidural numbs your nerves from your belly button to your upper legs, the nerves that allow you to control your bladder will also be numb. You may also require a tube to be inserted to empty your bladder. As the epidural wears off, you will also regain bladder control. Low Blood Pressure 14% of women who receive an epidural will feel a drop in their blood pressure, but most experts say it's rarely a cause for concern. An epidural numbs the nerve fibers that control blood vessel muscle contractions. The blood vessels then slowly relax which then lowers the blood pressure. However, if the blood pressure drops too low it can begin to affect the flow of blood to the baby in the womb. To nullify this possibility, most women get IV fluids before they administer the epidural, and their blood pressure is checked throughout the procedure. If your blood pressure continues to drop, you will get some other medication to counteract it. Rare Side Effects Severe Headaches In 1% of deliveries with epidural injections, the needle from the epidural pierces the spinal cord which can cause splitting headaches if left untreated. If this side effect arises, your physician may advise you to use caffeine and fluids to slowly relieve the pain. If it persists, they may administer an epidural blood patch. A small amount of your blood will be injected into the hole where the epidural was injected and when the blood clots, the hole in the spinal cord will close and this should cease your headache within 1-2 hours. Breathing Difficulties On rare occasions, the anesthesia can numb the muscles in your chest that control your breathing. This can lead to a degree of slow breathing. However, this is usually temporary and would be monitored by your physician during the delivery. Infection As with any time you cut an opening in the skin, there is the chance that bacteria might seep in and cause some infection in the skin and can even spread to other parts of your body. This tends to be rare since the needle used for the epidural is usually sterilized before insertion. Seizure In very rare circumstances, an epidural can cause seizures if the pain medication enters one of your veins. Nerve Damage The needle used for the epidural can sometimes hit a nerve which could lead to temporary and sometimes permanent loss of feeling across your lower body. Nerve Damage can also occur if bleeding occurs too close to the area of the spinal cord. According to the American Society of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, this condition only occurs in roughly 1/4000 to 1/200,000 people who receive epidural anesthesia. However, if you feel a numbing sensation after your epidural, let your physician know right away. Common myths about Epidurals Will epidural anesthesia harm the baby? The amount of medication from the epidural that reaches the baby is very small and there is no evidence to say it causes any physical or neurological harm to the baby. Can epidurals slow the labor process or necessitate a C-section surgery? There is also no evidence that the epidural will slow the labor process. When a woman cannot push the baby through the birth canal and requires a C-section, usually the issue has to do with the size of the baby, slow labor progression, or some other medical condition. Even though an epidural does numb the pain, it in no way affects the control you must push your baby through your birth canal. If anything, epidurals are believed to hasten the labor process, not slow it down. Conclusion Even though some of these risks can be quite severe, they are incredibly rare. Almost all physicians consider epidural injections to be a safe and low-risk procedure that dramatically reduces the pain you feel during your pregnancy. However, it always proves prudent to know the side effects in case they do crop up before, during, or after the delivery of your baby.

Childbirth is perhaps one of the most natural procedures and is a seminal moment in every mother’s life. For almost all first-time moms, it can be a strange and confusing process. Although there is a lot of information online, even the most well-researched soon-to-be mom often seeks the preparation of childbirth education classes. These classes provide new moms with hands-on techniques and knowledge about the entire childbirth process that ultimately reduces stress when the day finally comes. Some of the main topics of these classes include: Pain relief Relaxation Different labor positions Advice on where to give birth Firsthand testimonies about the experience Medical Interventions Class Logistics (Size, Curriculum, Methodology) Childbirth classes can range from private care sessions to large groups. Classes of 10-12 or more tend to be far too big since the teacher is not able to provide the required attention to each couple. Private sessions tend to allow more individual attention from the teacher but do not allow for any bonding between different couples going through the pregnancy process. Most experts believe the ideal class size should be around 5-6 couples. The class is also often taught in different ways. Many use slideshows and lectures while others put more effort into interactive based activities. The curriculum often deals with both the physical and psychological aspects of the birthing process and some of their processes include massage, aromatherapy, or epidural anesthesia. These classes are run by both public hospitals and private practitioners and differ in many ways yet all share a common goal of preparing both the mother and their spouse for the birthing process. Types of Childbirth Classes There are many different types of childbirth classes and it's key that soon-to-be moms research the different options available and decide what’s right for them. There are numerous types of childbirth classes that range in group size, teaching methodology, ideology, and birthing techniques. Listed below are the most known childbirth class programs. Many classes use different variations of these techniques and may even use a melange of a few of them, but they can be roughly categorized as such. Lamaze When one thinks of childbirth classes, this tends to be the first name that comes to mind. Since the 1950s Lamaze classes have been a staple of naturalized childbirth classes that place heavy emphasis on maintaining calm through rhythmic breathing exercises. These classes center around a more naturalized method approach to childbirth rather than modern medical techniques used to artificially reduce the mother’s pain. While this name is often used to refer to childbirth classes writ large, it is only one of the many approaches to parturition. Bradley Pioneered by Dr. Bradley through his work on ‘Husband-Coached Childbirth’, the Bradley method believes that women have been proven to have better birthing experiences when their husband is there to support them in the delivery room. The study also claimed that if the father was present during the birth, the father developed a stronger bond much quicker than they would have otherwise. This work was enormously helpful and helped advocate for fathers being more present in the birthing and pregnancy process. The Bradley method also emphasizes an acceptance of pain as part and parcel of the birthing process and mothers who take these classes rarely use painkillers. Alexander While some of the other approaches emphasize breathing or relieving stress, the Alexander technique appears to place emphasis on physical exercises to make sure the mom’s body does not tense up during the delivery. These classes force the moms to cope with pain by teaching them to deal with uncomfortable physical positions. These students also learn to properly squat to move their body in conjunction with their pelvic floor to smoothen the process through the birth canal. International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) The International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) has a more progressive philosophy when it comes to childbirth. It has a more interdisciplinary approach to parturition which incorporates ideas from the fields of sociology, anthropology, midwifery, psychology, nursing, and medicine. It also believes in the principle that each mother should choose their own preferences for the delivery room and tries not to sway them in one direction or another. However, the ICEA does mirror the Bradley method, emphasizing a family-focused approach to childbirth rather than keeping the mother as the only focus of attention. Hypnobirthing This technique emphasizes a more epicurean approach to birthing that aims to help moms achieve the most relaxed state possible during the birth. These techniques aim to reduce discomfort and apprehension and even help the mother deal with stressful situations after the baby is born. It avoids the use of drugs or medication and instead focuses on the mother’s mental state through neurological training exercises. When should you take a class? During the first and second trimesters, new moms should take ‘early bird’ classes that center around diet, exercise, sex, and fetal growth. These allow the mother to slowly ease into the pregnancy process and help them get their body ready for birth down the line. However, there are also 4-10 weeklong prep classes that moms usually take in the last couple of months of their pregnancy which focus more directly on going into labor, contractions, delivery, and post-natal care for the mom. Frankly, it is never too early in your pregnancy process to take these classes, but most experts believe that it is best if you enroll during month 6 or 7 of the pregnancy process. Even if this is the mother’s 2nd or 3rd child, it still is worthwhile to investigate some childbirth class options. No delivery is the same and even those who have had ample natal experience can benefit from a review of some birthing techniques. It's also true that new research often emerges during the time between the mother’s 1st and 2nd pregnancy so it may always be great to learn as much as possible to make the 2nd time smoother than the first. At the end of the day though, these prep courses can only go so far in preparing women for the birth of their child. But it is always best to be as prepared as possible to make sure you feel ready for such a seminal moment in your life.

Telangiectasia, also known as “spider veins”, is a condition where enlarged venules (small blood vessels) cause patterns or lines in the skin. These patterns are usually red, cluster-shaped, and take a certain amount of time to form. The name spider veins come from the fact that the lines and clusters are usually very thin, giving them a look similar to a spider web. Spider veins usually appear on visible areas, such as the nose, lips, and fingers. While they are generally harmless or benign, spider veins can be indicators of more serious vein or blood-related issues. However, in most cases, they are nothing to worry about. What causes them? Spider veins are caused by the weakening of valves, which are responsible for pushing and transporting blood in the direction of the heart. The weak valves will not close fully, allowing a small amount of blood to leak back into the veins. Eventually, the buildup of blood will expand the walls of the veins, causing them to become more visible and prominent. Common risk factors for spider veins include: Chronic alcoholism; which can affect blood flow, as well as the liver Aging; which is related to the weakening of the venous walls Corticosteroids; which can weaken and thin the skin A variety of skin conditions such as dermatomyositis, lupus, or scleroderma Hereditary factors What are some of the symptoms? Spider veins alone, while sometimes uncomfortable, are generally not life-threatening or anything like that. Symptoms can include: -Venous pain -An itching sensation An example of a serious condition where spider veins are commonly present is hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Spider vein clusters form on vital organs and can burst, causing large amounts of hemorrhaging and bleeding. Symptoms of HHT include: Chronic nosebleeds Difficulty breathing Seizures Strokes The appearance of dark, purplish birthmarks Why can women get them during pregnancy? It is common for spider veins to develop during pregnancy. Pregnancy is associated with conditions such as increases in overall blood volume, a slower rate of blood flow, and hormone imbalances. All of these factors can cause greater strain on the veins, making them swell or expand, and causing spider veins. It is a perfectly normal condition during pregnancy, and should not be cause for too much concern. How do you prevent them? Spider veins are usually just a temporary side effect of pregnancy. After pregnancy, when your blood volume drops to normal levels, they should become less prominent, or disappear altogether. In some cases, however, they remain permanently. Another thing to note is if you develop spider veins during pregnancy, you are much more likely to have them during future pregnancies as well. It is not really possible for you to prevent the onset of spider veins entirely. That being said, there are ways you can reduce your risk, and minimize its effects: Eating fibrous foods A diet rich in high fiber foods might help reduce the effects of spider veins during pregnancy. Constipation, which is another common pregnancy side-effect, heavily contributes to the strain on veins. Fibrous foods will help with reducing strain during bowel movements, particularly on the veins in the legs, and minimize the effects of constipation. Some examples of high-fiber foods include: Pears Strawberries Apples Avocado Raspberries Carrots Bananas Chickpeas Good levels of vitamin C Vitamin C is used by the body to produce elastin and collagen, two tissues that help your body maintain and rebuild veins. This will help to reduce the damage done to your veins due to the extra strain on them from the increased blood volume. Vitamin C supplements are widely available and generally safe. Examples of foods rich in Vitamin C are: Citrus fruit Peppers Blackcurrants Broccoli Brussels sprouts Potatoes Regular Exercise Exercise is important for improving blood circulation, as well as the strength of your veins. Because spider veins are especially common on the legs, exercises which target the legs especially are important. Exercising can also help you lose weight. Weight gain is another thing that has negative effects on pre-existing spider veins. Excess weight puts additional strain and pressure on the legs and lower body, causing the veins to expand. Pregnancy is less than ideal for high-intensity workouts, such as sprinting or heavy weight-lifting, so it is probably a better idea for you to do aerobic, lower-intensity workouts. Some examples of these include: Walking Light jogging Swimming Elliptical training Rowing Moderate upper-body strength training Yoga Position for better blood flow When you are resting, mostly sitting, try not to cross your legs, or sit in other ways which can restrict blood flow from the legs. Having them elevated actually encourages blood flow to the heart, aided by gravity, and takes some of the strain off of them. Break up your inactive periods Long periods of sitting or standing can inhibit blood flow to the heart. Standing especially can put pressure on your leg veins because of the weight of gravity on the blood and vessels. If you have to stand for an extended period of time, try shifting your weight from one leg to another, or moving your legs around to encourage blood flow. While you are sitting, try standing up and walking around every 30 minutes or so in order to increase your circulation. Compression stockings Wearing compression stockings, or other compression-designed clothes will help with reducing swelling and improving circulation. They should be worn throughout the day but removed at night. That being said, it is probably a good idea to generally avoid tight clothing, especially anything that constricts your lower-body areas. Cosmetic surgery There are certain procedures that can be done to eliminate the visual side effects of spider veins. Laser treatments are a common, but expensive, method of reducing or eliminating visible spider veins. Another method is sclerotherapy, which is when the spider vein clusters are injected with a special solution, causing them to fade and eventually disappear. It is important to note, however, that both of these procedures pose a great deal of risk to yourself and your child during pregnancy. That is why they can only be performed after the pregnancy is over.

During pregnancy, it is not uncommon for certain women to accumulate high blood sugar levels. This is referred to as gestational diabetes, or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Gestational diabetes usually develops sometime between the 24th to the 28th week of the pregnancy. It has been known to occur in roughly 2-10% of pregnancies. Developing gestational diabetes does not necessarily mean you had diabetes before you were pregnant, or that you will have it permanently following the pregnancy. However, getting it during pregnancy has been linked to a higher possibility of developing diabetes, specifically type 2, afterward. If it is not taken care of properly during pregnancy, the condition can also be a risk factor for the future development of diabetes in the child. Complications during the birth and delivery process can also arise from gestational diabetes. What are the symptoms? Gestational diabetes typically does not cause any symptoms, and any that do occur are generally mild, including: Blurry vision Increased levels of thirst Need to urinate Snoring Fatigue What are the causes? Despite the fact that the exact cause of gestational diabetes is unknown, it is believed that hormones are involved. During pregnancy, your body produces increased amounts of certain hormones, such as those involved with insulin resistance. An overabundance of these hormones can lead to an increased resistance to insulin, which is bad news for your body’s ability to regulate your blood sugar levels. What are some known risk factors? You have a larger chance of developing gestational diabetes if you: Are over 25 Are expected to have more than one baby Have had gestational diabetes previously Have had a stillbirth or miscarriage Have a history of high blood pressure or diabetes Were overweight or obese before your pregnancy Have condition(s) related to insulin resistance Have given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds before How is it diagnosed? It is standard practice for most doctors to semi-regularly screen pregnant women for gestational diabetes. If you are not considered high-risk, in terms of the aforementioned factors, you will probably only be screened during weeks 24 and 28 of the pregnancy. Various blood sugar level tests are carried out to detect gestational diabetes: The glucose test, where you drink a solution of glucose before your blood sugar levels are tested for abnormalities an hour later. You may be required to undergo a period of fasting, where your blood sugar levels will be recorded. After consuming a carbohydrate solution, your levels will be compared to those taken during the fast. This is referred to as the one-step test. Over the course of two days, you will drink two high-sugar solutions. Your blood sugar levels will be recorded and compared as well. This is referred to as the two-step test and does not require any fasting or preparation. Are there different types? There are two types of gestational diabetes: A1 and A2. A1 refers to gestational diabetes which can be managed solely through diet regulation. Cases of A2 will require insulin or medication. What can I do to decrease my risk factors? Although there are no fool-proof methods for preventing gestational diabetes entirely, there are several habits and activities which lower your chances of having it: Aerobic Exercise Aerobic exercise, as opposed to anaerobic, is very important for maintaining a constant level of proper fitness. It involves activities that emphasize cardiovascular conditioning and breathing. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, as well as improving the function of the lungs. Most importantly, for the purposes of preventing gestational diabetes, it is extremely helpful for weight loss and controlling blood sugar levels. Examples of low-impact aerobic exercise include: Walking Cycling Swimming Elliptical training machine Rowing Certain types of upper-body strength training Yoga For people with a busy schedule, or a mid-length commute, activities such as taking the stairs or walking, or cycling to work are especially convenient. Examples of high-impact aerobic exercise include: Running/jogging Moderate skipping rope Intense aerobic routines High-impact aerobic exercises are designed more for people who are regularly active. They require a greater deal of time, energy, and effort, to perform consistently. Stretching and other similar activities are especially vital for high-impact aerobics. During later stages of pregnancy, it is recommended that women perform about 30 minutes of low-impact aerobic exercise per day. High-impact aerobic exercise is better to do prior to the pregnancy, or at least in earlier stages. Because blood sugar levels and Body Mass Index (BMI) are so closely linked, it is important to try as best as possible to maintain a relatively stable body weight both before and during pregnancy. Anaerobic Exercise Anaerobic exercises, on the other hand, are much more fast-paced and intense and rely more heavily on your body’s stores of glycogen to fuel your workouts, as opposed to oxygen. This form of exercise usually requires a greater level of physical fitness and can be more demanding on the body. High-intensity workouts are great for rapid weight loss and muscle development. Anaerobic exercise is not recommended for women who are in the mid-later stages of pregnancy, but it can be excellent for building up muscle and losing weight beforehand, decreasing the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Examples of anaerobic exercise include: Weightlifting Sprinting Intense biking Boxing Jumping Diet While reducing consumption of high-sugar foods has not been shown to directly impact the risk for gestational diabetes, eating a healthy diet will certainly help with controlling weight fluctuations and maintaining a stable BMI. Examples of healthy diet habits include: Smaller portions, or controlled portion, sizes Foods with fructose, such as fruit, as opposed to sucrose, such as candy Vegetables and fibrous grains Avoiding sugary drinks, and sticking mostly to water Lean proteins, such as chicken breast Three square meals a day Avoiding snacking at random hours Low-fat dairy products

We have seen it before in movies, read it in books, heard from other moms giving birth; it is not quick and easy. Labor is hard work and can be incredibly painful. There are a million things that can happen, and if you have given birth before, there might have been more complications than today. We have all heard of things that can happen during pregnancy and labor that seem incredibly scary. What if the baby is in the wrong position? What if I can’t take the pain? What if I have to give birth in the car cause I can’t get to the hospital fast enough? What if my water breaks at an event or when I’m out shopping? There are many fears and things to worry about, and childbirth isn’t a piece of cake. But it is astonishing what the female body can do and go through when having a baby. Your body is equipped with all the things it needs to deliver the baby safely and soundly, but it is understandable to be scared, especially if it is your first baby. What if I need a c-section? In some cases, for example, if the baby isn’t in the proper position or there might be any risk in delivering the baby vaginally, your doctor might advise you to have a c-section. This is basically getting the baby out through your abdomen. The surgery doesn’t take too long, but the healing process does. Good news: every 3rd woman in the United States of America gets a c-section, so there is no need to be scared of the surgery as many women have gone through it before. There are ways to speed up the healing process: by wearing a compression garment, resting, drinking enough water, doing light stretches, etc. With these strategies, you will be on your feet sooner than you think. It’s not the traditional way, but you will not feel any pain while having the surgery, and it can also be planned. There are women that choose to have a c-section because of precisely those factors. What if the pain is too much? Ah, yes. You might think about this often while you are pregnant. How bad is the pain going to be? Maybe you have heard horror stories online or from your friends. The good news is your body makes you remember the pain of childbirth after delivery as less severe. That’s an evolutionary trick to make you want to have another kid. See, our body is smart. But there are actual ways to reduce the pain while in labor. For example, with medication, an epidural will help you if you want it. An excellent way to prepare for the process is to watch videos, read about it and ask other women about it; you can always choose not to go through that much pain and ask for medication. The epidural needle is enormous! The epidural needle is indeed 4 inches long. But before it even reaches you, the area is numbed, and you won’t feel a lot when the needle is injected. There might be a little pressure, but that’s it. You won’t feel any pain, and it will be over sooner than you think. So there is no need to be scared of the needle. I have heard your vagina can tear? Yes, you read that right. It can happen. Half of the women have at least one little tear happen during labor. Giving birth to your first child and gaining weight might make it more likely for you to tear during labor. It happens naturally and most of the time doesn’t even need too much fixing after. You can do things to prevent the tearing by gently massaging the area between your vagina and anus starting a couple of weeks before labor. If you have heard of episiotomy before, it is a cut from your vagina to your anus, but it isn’t used anymore as doctors realized it is better to let it tear by itself. So don’t worry about that. Will I poop when I push? Many women worry about this before going into labor. What if I push and I poop? It’s a common fear, but an unnecessary one. Chances are, nurses and doctors that help you deliver your baby have done it a thousand times before, and every woman going into that delivery room has worried about the same thing. When you push, you have to use muscles that are also in your rectum, and it will most likely happen that with pushing, you will poop. But no need to go crazy; everyone in the room is used to it and will not be surprised. What if I can’t make it to the hospital in time? What if I have to give birth in the car or at home cause I can’t make it to the hospital in time? Here is something to consider: most childbirths have a duration of eight hours. So the chance of you being stuck in traffic for eight hours is slim. What if something goes wrong? It’s an absolutely understandable fear of unexpected things happening that could put you and the baby in danger. You can speak with your doctor about them; chances are your doctor has delivered many babies and knows about complications and what to expect. Most of the complications that could happen can be detected while you are pregnant with an ultrasound, etc. So if there would be some big complication that might have an effect on your baby, your doctors would inform you beforehand, and you could have a c-section if that’s safer. The best way is to talk to doctors and nurses. It Will Be Alright There are many fears going into labor, and you are not alone. Millions of women feel the same way you do. Remember to talk to your doctor or nurse about your fears as they are experienced—they can give you good advice. All in all, don’t worry too much! Your body can do great things.

Labor positions are as old as time itself. Many women do not feel comfortable with the traditional labor position and try out different ones to ease the pain and deliver the baby safely. You might have done your research already, reading books and watching videos on how the delivery will proceed. It might be overwhelming to think about all the things that you need to look out for, and the actual labor might make you feel nervous and stressed. How bad will the pain be? Will I need a c-section? How will I feel afterward? Having a baby is hard work; maybe that’s why they called it labor... In this article, I will tell you all about labor positions, which ones are recommended, and whether they could ease pain and make delivery easier on you. You don't need to stick with the traditional on-your-back labor position that you see on TV. It’s your labor, and you decide if you want a totally different position or switch during the delivery to another one, or even do three throughout the delivery. You can ask your midwife, nurse, or doctor about the various positions. Don’t worry; it's really common for moms to use different labor positions, especially if you don’t take any medication, as every woman has to wait to push until the cervix is fully dilated, which can be quick or take longer depending on your case. Different labor positions can also ease the wait. Why use different labor positions? Even though it is called labor, you still can be as comfortable as possible while giving birth, and that’s what labor positions are for - to provide you with more comfort and ease your pain, as well as open your pelvis and give the baby more room. Common labor positions to try that might ease the pain: There are many labor positions out there. I will give you a list of all the common positions and take out three of them which have the best result and are very common to help many women ease the pain. Walking This labor position works with gravity—and while in delivery, gravity can be your best friend. Your baby will move down the birth canal easier, and your pelvis might have an easier time opening up. You can’t give birth walking around, but it might be a good way to get things going beforehand. Squatting This beloved exercise will come in handy again in labor. It allows the baby to have more room and opens the pelvis. Hands and Knees Another great way to open up the pelvis and might take the pressure off your spine and ease back pain, as well as give the baby more oxygen. Sitting Down Gravity comes in handy again when you sit down. You get some rest, and the perineum can be relaxed, which will reduce tearing. Laying on Your Side You can lay on your side and place a pillow or ball between your legs. This will help the baby move into the correct position. It also makes it easier to relax and can be used if you have high blood pressure. Lunges It seems strange, but lunges can actually help rotate the baby and give it more room. Get someone to support you when making these movements. Certain Scenarios Might Require Different Positions If you have an epidural (the medication injected in your epidural around your spinal cord), you won’t be able to walk around too much. Lying on your side or sitting down might be an option for you. If your baby's heart rate is monitored, you can still try the positions lying on your side, sitting, or squatting. Can there be any complications while I try a labor position? There are cases where certain labor positions can change how your baby’s heart beats, but the midwife, nurse, or doctor will let you know if you have to change positions. The lying on your back position can be advised against because it can put pressure on your blood vessels. All in all, there can be complications in any position, but with your doctor or nurse there, they will monitor you and the baby, so there should be nothing to worry about. Switching from one labor position to another can be beneficial, though. The three best labor positions for a comfortable delivery So what are the three best labor positions for a mostly comfortable delivery? Obviously, that might be different for everyone, depending on your situation and body. Maybe you have had a child before, or this is your first; these are factors that can contribute to comfortable labor. Some doctors say positions—where you are in an upright position—may reduce the duration of your labor as gravity is doing some of the work. Examples of these positions can be: Walking Squatting Sitting These labor positions open your pelvis and give the baby more room as well as push the baby deeper into the birth canal. If you have back pain, it can help reduce that and even make contractions less painful. If you have high blood pressure or your baby needs constant heart monitoring, the doctor might not recommend it for you, and you can try out lying-down positions. Get Ready There may be a range of labor positions that can help you - ask your doctor or nurse what might be best for you and the baby. Generally speaking, upright positions and the help of gravity might speed up your labor a little more. These positions are for your comfort and should help you ease pain and deliver comfortably. Your body will tell you what to do, and you will feel when to switch positions or what will work best for you. Listen to your own intuition. Sometimes you don’t even need to switch between positions too much, and in some cases, it might feel better to do many and keep moving. You can also ask your partner to support you during movements like squatting, etc.—it will make movements easier.