Visualisations are important while in labour. Where the mind leads, the body will follow. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ If you’re a mum to be you may often wonder what will a contraction feel like? How will I know when I have a contraction? There is something exciting about the idea of going into labour isn’t there, that feeling of joyful anticipation. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Instinctively you will know the difference between a contraction and a niggle. Instinct is so important when in labour. One of the tools all of my clients take away with them after the course is the use your BRAIN technique (I = Instinct). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A contraction in early labour will be very gentle and the best way to differentiate between the real thing and a niggle is, you will feel the sensation but then it will pass and a few minutes later it’s back again. This repetition is a clear sign that you are experiencing contractions. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The beauty about contractions is that they come, they peak and they leave. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Remembering this little fact when I was in labour really helped. I concentrated on my breathing and once I hit the peak I knew it was going to get that bit easier and I could look forward to the break. Once the contraction is over you can relax until the next one. In established labour they usually last one minute and are three minutes apart. Nature is kind, labour isn’t a constant feeling of discomfort, it allows the body to rest and recover. This of course is not the same for an induction of labour as contractions can be more constant and there is less of a break for the mum as a result of synthetic oxytocin. ⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This picture I came across in a children’s book is perfect for you to think of when you are in labour. Remembering this and breathing through each contraction will allow for a more efficient and comfortable birth experience.⠀⠀⠀
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