LABOR SUPPORT TECHNIQUES
Focal Point
Relaxation cues: imagine feet _______
Visualization: Find your peaceful place
Massage from center to extremities
Maternal Positions:
Standingleaning
WalkingKneeling
Side Lying (hgh bld pressure, fast labor)
Slow Dancing
Supported Squat
Hands and Knees (over ball or pillows)
Breath Deep and Slow
Touch Relaxation
Music Therapy
Acupressure (roof of mouth, 3 spaces abve
inner ankle)
Bath or Shower
Warm cloths on back, groin, abdomen
Cool Cloth on Forehead
Drink water/tea eat
EMOTIONAL LABOR SUPPORT
Greet cntx at the beginning
Undivided Attention
Expressions of caring
HugsKiss
Hold HandStroke Forehead
Remind her that it will be over soon
Confidence in woman and her body
Confidence in baby
ComplimentsEncouragement
FeedbackEye Contact
Ask only yes/no questions
Mirror her actions (moan, breathe, rock with her)
Remind her of holding the baby soon
Don't fight the cntx
Open mouth=open cervix
Encourage vocalization keep below middle C
BACK LABOR TECHNIQUES
Counterpressure on back
Hands and knees (over ball, chair, pillow, lap)
Rolling Pressure
Pelvic rocking
"Belly dancing"
Double Hip Squeeze
Massage
Shower, tub, jacuzzi
Birthball
Heat therapy
Slow Dancing
TENS
KEY PHRASES
Early Labor
-we'll be parents by this time tomorrow
-tell me when you're sure you want to go.
-you're going to do great!
-do you need to eat/go to the bathroom?
Active Labor
-you're doing great
-good job
-this contraction is almost over
-relax your < hands, feet, shoulders, face> touch
intended area
-give into the ctx, don't fight cntx
-breathe deep and slow
-open mouth=open vagina
-rock it out
-imagine the pain traveling out your legs and arms
-imagine cervix opening/ baby decending/feet,
hands being _______
-try to make her smile
Transition
-active labor phrases
-let's try 5 more contractions together
-you're almost done
-this is the shortest part of labor
-you can do it!
-soon you'll be holding our baby!
-I love you
-work w/contractions
-breathe deep & slow
-focus on my eyes
-don't be afraid to make noise
Pushing
-Follow your urges
-your body's telling you what to do.
-your perineum is stretching wonderfully
-open mouth=open vagina
-make noise!
-You're pushing perfectly!
-Focus your energy towards the baby
