RHYTHMICAL MOVEMENTS

Many women find that rhythmical movement helps to ease pain during labour. This is not surprising because the movement is a common response in other painful circumstances. Likewise, during labour, many women instinctively have a strong urge to be active. Movement provides a source of counter-stimulation and may stimulate the release of endorphins within the nervous system.

For example, rocking the pelvis backwards and forwards during contractions is often found to be soothing. This can be performed while standing, sitting, kneeling, lying down or on hands and knees.

Other rhythmical movements include tapping your fingers, rubbing your abdomen, breathing rhythmically and stamping your feet. Some women find it helps to count, sing, shout or howl at the same time!. Whichever manoeuvre appeals to you, the action should be rhythmical and repetitive, and make you feel better.