It’s 2022, and it’s all about the #vibes. This couldn’t be more true in labor and birth. You have so much control over the vibe of your birthing location and doing so will change your birth experience. Don’t take my word for it.
It’s science.
Labor is governed by hormones, which are chemicals produced in the brain. The heavy hitters are oxytocin, endorphins, adrenaline, and prolactin. Oxytocin is the ooey-gooey love hormone, released when we hug each other, pet a dog, orgasm, etc. In labor it causes strong uterine contractions. It surges when we feel safe, calm, relaxed, and private. The pain from contractions allows our brains to release endorphins, which add to our relaxation and euphoria, kind of like a “runner’s high.” Higher than normal levels of adrenaline keep us alert and energized, and prolactin helps with bonding and readies the body for breastfeeding.
When there is the perception of *danger* or lack of privacy, or we become fearful, our adrenaline can surge. Think “fight or flight.” This response can actually coincide with a decrease in oxytocin–which we observe as a decrease in frequency or strength of contractions when people transition to a new location, are met with unfamiliar faces, or experience some other trigger that takes them out of their safe birthing cocoon. It’s not uncommon for labor to slow down or stop completely when people first arrive at their birthing location for this reason!
With the tips below, you can get the good vibes flowing and labor bumping along in no time.
Transform your birthing location
#1 Set the mood
Turn off the lights or dim them drastically. Add in battery-operated tea lights and/or strings of twinkle lights, and watch a sterile hospital room transform into a romantic fairy-land.
#2 Tunes
Create playlists of songs that make you feel good. I suggest making one that is more upbeat and one that is more relaxing. Familiar, nostalgic songs that make you feel something and remind you of loved ones are *chef’s kiss.*
#3 Visuals
Framed pictures of loved ones, religious or spiritual symbols, affirmations, or a picture of your happy place. Feel free to decorate the space or set up a bedside shrine with different items. One of my recent clients had a pillow screen-printed with her daughter on one side and her dog on the other and held it close to her all through labor.
#4 The Crew
Surround yourself with people who make you feel loved. Thoughtfully consider who will bring a sense of peace and calm to your space, and who will bring you comfort. If you have a romantic partner with you, try holding hands, cuddling, and gazing into each other’s eyes for a boost of oxytocin. A doula can do wonders for enhancing the sense of security for you and your partner.
#5 Creature Comforts can make your birthing location feel more like home
What’s better than snuggling up with your favorite cozy blanket, your pillow with the perfect level of firmness, or special socks? Seemingly small touches from home can make all the difference.
Comment below what you did, or how you are planning, to make your birthing location feel special!
By Danielle McFadden
