Signs of True Labor
True labor has begun when certain signs are present. If you notice any of these signs before your thirty-seventh week, contact your caregiver immediately. You could be experiencing preterm labor. The signs of true...
Contractions and How to Time Them
Contractions are the periodic tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles. They can be felt in different ways. Most commonly, a contraction is perceived as starting in the back and radiating to the front....
Onset of Labor
Researches are continuing to analyze what factors are actually responsible for causing labor to begin. While the exact cause and mechanisms are not known, most evidence points to hormonal changes. Current research suggests that...
Warm-Up Signs of Labor
Prior to the onset of labor, you will notice several signs indicating that it is approaching. Some will happen several days or even weeks in advance. Others will occur when labor is imminent. “Lightening”,...
How To Select A Nursing Bra
You should shop for a nursing bra during your last month of pregnancy in order to ensure a proper fit. Try to find one that is comfortable. The cups should be loose on top...
Things To Do Before Your Due Date
As your due date approaches, youwhether you have a living will will want to make sure that you have completed your preparations for labor and for the arrival of your baby. The following are...
Suggested Sequence for Practicing Labor Exercises
You should practice your conditioning exercises, relaxation exercises, and breathing patterns every day. If possible, get in two practice sessions per day—one alone and one with your labor partner. You can do the relaxation...
Effective Pushing Techniques for Labor
When your cervix has completely effaced and dilated, you can actively help the uterus move the baby down the birth canal by bearing down or pushing with the contractions. Most women feel a strong...
Common Tools to Reduce the Perception of Labor Pains
Relaxation, patterned breathing, and comfortable labor positions are very important for coping with labor. Other tools that reduce pain perception during labor are massage, counterpressure, acupressure, laboring in water, and application of heat or...
The Most Helpful Positions For Easier Labor
If given the choice, most women prefer to move about and change position when they are in labor. Being mobile and upright decreases pain perception, shortens labor, an decreases the need for medication and...