Lamaze Magazine 2008 - (Page 18) Celebration Birth Comfort Zone By Penny Simkin, CD(DONA), PT Ten ways to relieve labor pain aise your comfort level with these tips to cope with labor pain. First, decide who and what will be with you. Then learn about what you can do with your body and mind during contractions. You’ll be amazed at your ability to discover and stay in your comfort zone. 1. Find a Soothing Environment Your birth setting must feel safe to you. It should have space to walk and bathe, as well as a variety of furniture and devices to enhance movement and pain relief: rails along the walls, a CD player, rocking chair, birth ball, low stool, squatting bar and soft bed. It should also have policies that encourage you to try a variety of positions. Access to appropriate medical care is crucial if problems arise. 2. Choose Your Team Carefully Knowledgeable and caring doctors, nurses, midwives, partners, loved ones and doulas create a supportive birth team. When you’re treated with respect and patience, stress and inhibitions decrease, and you can more easily find your best coping mechanisms. (For more on labor support, see page 14.) 3. Learn About Labor Find out everything you can about labor through books, magazines, videos, classes, a hospital tour and discussions with your health-care provider, doula, family and friends. Familiarize yourself with the procedures and customs at your hospital or birth center, and ask if there is flexibility. More knowledge means fewer surprises. R LAMAZE MAGAZINE 2008 18 LAMAZE.ORG PHOTO: RACHEL WEILL
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