Your Labour Toolkit: Some Tools for a Supported Birth

Preparing for labour involves gathering practical tools and creating an environment that supports your comfort and confidence. These “tools” aren’t just physical items; they also include techniques and a mindset that help you feel grounded, in control, and supported!. Here’s a few options for some tools to ad to your birthing toolkit with some relaxation, natural pain techniques, and helpful products to make your labour experience as empowering as it can be!

1. TENS Machine

A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine can be a game-changer for early labour. It sends mild electrical pulses through electrodes placed on your back, which can help manage pain by blocking pain signals and encouraging endorphin release. Start using it in early labour, and increase the intensity as your contractions progress. Many find the rhythmic tingling sensation to be a helpful distraction and also giving you something to focus on with each wave or contraction.

2. Water: Bath, Shower, or Birth Pool

Water is a powerful natural pain relief method. It can be incredibly soothing during labour. Immersing yourself in a warm bath or using a birth pool eases pressure and pain while reducing gravity’s intensity on your body. A warm shower directed on your back or belly can offer relief as well. It’s all about finding what feels good in the moment, and water is known for its calming, pain-relieving qualities.

3. Heat Pack

Heat packs can provide relief, especially in the lower back or belly. Apply a warm pack to areas where you feel the most discomfort, as the warmth can help relax muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate pain. Just be cautious about temperature; you want it warm, not too hot.

4. Meditation and Breathing Techniques

Breathing is your most important labour tool, this is something you should be practising daily in the lead up to birth. Mindful breathing can help centre you and lower stress. Deep, slow breaths can calm your nervous system and keep oxygen flowing to you and your baby. There are several techniques, like counting breaths or visualising waves with each inhale and exhale. The more you practice these ahead of labour, the easier they’ll be to use when things get intense. Also a great tool for life in general!

5. Affirmation Cards 

Positive affirmations can be powerful tools. Encouraging words to boost your confidence, help shift your mindset, and ground you during labour. Place them in your birth space to create an uplifting, positive atmosphere that encourages you to trust in the process. You can create your own or we also have made some here:

6. Clary Sage and Birth Comb

Our Labour of Love Birthing Essentials Toolkit includes a birth comb and a Clary Sage & Lavender Roller Oil that can be incredibly supportive during labour. Clary sage oil is believed to support contractions and calm nerves. You can roll it on pulse points or blend it with a carrier oil for massage. The birth comb works by providing acupressure in your hand, helping you channel your focus during contractions and potentially distracting from pain.

7. Visualisation Techniques

Visualising calming scenes or even the birth process itself can be grounding. Picture yourself in a serene place, or imagine each contraction as a wave, carrying you closer to meeting your baby. These mental images can help bring a sense of control and peace, even during intense moments.

8. Low Moans and Vocalisations

Embracing low moans or hums can be a powerful way to release tension and channel energy. Low, deep noises (even a moo like a cow) can keep you grounded, helping to relax your jaw and throat—areas that are surprisingly connected to your pelvic floor. The key is to let sounds flow naturally. Another great tip is to remember - Floppy Face, Floppy Fanny.

9. Gravity: Movement, Yoga Ball, or Peanut Ball

Leaning into gravity by moving around, swaying, or sitting on a yoga or peanut ball can encourage your baby’s descent. The peanut ball, especially, is excellent if you need to stay in bed, as it helps open the pelvis and supports optimal positioning for baby.

10. Low Lighting and Electric Candles

A calm environment can make all the difference. Low lighting, dim lights, or electric candles can create a cosy, and calming atmosphere that helps you relax and feel safe.Releasing all that necessary oxytocin!  Bright lights can be overstimulating, so soft lighting will support your body’s natural instincts to feel secure and at ease.

11. Music or a Playlist

Music can provide comfort and distraction. Create a playlist that feels personal—whether that’s soothing tunes, upbeat songs, or a mix. Music can help you stay calm, keep your rhythm, and add a personal touch to your birth space.

12. Coconut Water, Water, and Ice

Staying hydrated is crucial. Coconut water is a great choice as it’s packed with natural electrolytes, keeping you hydrated and energised. Have plain water, ice chips, or flavoured ice pops on hand too. Labour can be intense work, and staying hydrated will help keep up your strength.

13. Warm Flannels

Applying warm flannels (hot tip - roll clary sage on these) to your lower back , or forehead can be soothing. The warmth relaxes tense muscles and can help you manage contractions. Warm compresses are particularly helpful when labour begins to intensify.

14. Rebozo

A rebozo is a traditional Mexican shawl that can be used in various ways during labour. Your support person or doula can wrap it around your belly or hips and gently rock it back and forth to relieve tension. It’s a fantastic tool to encourage movement and help baby into an optimal position. Ask your midwife or support provider about this! 

15. Massage and Counter Pressure

Massages or counter-pressure applied to your lower back can be incredibly soothing. Counter-pressure involves firm, steady pressure on areas like your lower back or hips, which can be especially helpful if you’re experiencing back labour. A massage oil or Viva La Vulva’s essential oil rollers from the Labour of Love Kit can add an aromatic layer to your relaxation.

The Labour of Love Kit

Our Labour of Love Birthing Essentials Kit includes a birth comb, Clary Sage & Lavender Roller Oil, and other tools to support your labour. It also includes postpartum essentials like a Healing Spray, a Peri Wash Bottle, and Witch Hazel for immediate after-birth care, all in a handy little bag to keep your items organised. These essentials are designed to help you feel prepared, cared for, and comforted during labour and immediate postpartum!

Creating your birth toolkit means choosing tools, techniques, and items that make you feel strong, centered, and connected to the journey. Trust your instincts, embrace what empowers you, and let these tools support your strength every step of the way! 

You've got this, Mama!!!