5 Thing to do in Early Labor

Early labor can be long and tiring. It is important though to rest as much as you can before active labor starts, that is where you will need most of your energy. Here are some ideas of things you can do while in early labor that could also help your labor progress. 

Go for a slow walk

Going for a walk and getting fresh air may be exactly what your body needs for labor to progress further. Be sure to take it slow. Put on some music and take in the environment around you, smell the fresh air, the ground beneath your feet and the sounds you hear around you. This walk should be slow and intentional. Take time to connect with your baby and prepare for the journey you are about to take to bring them earth side.

 Do a guided meditation

A guided meditation can be incredibly helpful to set your intentions, connect with your baby and help your mind prepare for the intensity of active labor. When doing guided meditation be sure you are in a place where you can relax and close your eyes.  You can find tons of guided meditations on YouTube.

Get a massage 

Whether it’s a professional massage or just a back rub from your partner, it can all really help you relax. A massage from your partner can help increase your oxytocin levels which is vital for labor to progress in a healthy way! Massage can also help you relax enough to sleep and get some much needed rest before active labor starts.

Have a chiropractic adjustment 

A chiropractic adjustment will help make sure everything is aligned for labor. For me specifically  having an adjustment really helped me relax and I often would be able to take a nap after! When seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy be sure that they are Webster certified, they are specifically taught how to adjust during pregnancy.  

Spend quality time with your partner 

Spending quality time with your partner again can help increase your oxytocin levels and really help your labor move forward. Be intentional with your time together, maybe talk about the change that is about to come to your family. You can cuddle up and watch your favorite movie or show or take a shower together. 

Regardless on what you do during early labor remember that contractions can slow but that doesn’t mean labor has stalled. Trust your body and your baby. Early labor can last days or even weeks, take it day by day, hour by hour and try to relax and rest as much as possible.