Breathing Techniques During Labor

Breathing Techniques During Labor

Breathing techniques during labor can be used in place of gas & air, epidural and the normal medical pain relief drugs.

Before these drugs were even available, women all around the world were concentrating on their breathing to keep them focused during labor and childbirth.

If you are stressed, anxious or frightened, your breathing will become shallow and rapid. When you start to panic, you will over-breathe. Over-breathing will make you feel out of control and dizzy. You will start to take in less oxygen (which both you and your baby really need at this time) You will become exhausted, and this is the last state that you need to be in when you are in labor!

So what are labor breathing techniques?

Using certain breathing techniques during labor will help you to stay focused and calm through contractions. You need to try and keep your breathing relaxed and rhythmatic, rather like it was before you went into labor.

It's good to practise breathing techniques before you actually go into labor, as you will know exactly what to do then when the time comes.

What breathing techniques during labor can I use?

Breathing techniques should be modified to suit each individual woman, but there are some basic steps you can take to get you started. Then maybe you could ask your midwife about specific classes in your area.

Think of a word that can be split into two syllables, such as: ba-by, tran-quil, re-lax. When you breathe in, think of the beginning of the word and stretch it out: "baaayyy" then when you breathe out, think of the end of the word "bbbyyyyyy"
Take a deep breath at the beginning of each contraction and then let that breath out slowly. Don't try to make one deep breath last for the whole contraction, and don't hold your breath. When your contractions are lasting for 30 seconds or more, holding your breath will stop oxygen flowing to your baby.
Try to make your breath out, last longer than the breath in.
If you have a birthing partner or doula, get them to help with the labor breathing techniques. When contractions get really painful they can help to keep you focused.
Let your breathing make its own pattern and rhythm. But don't over-breathe. You will find that your breathing changes as your labor progresses, it is your job to control it.
Making noises on the breath out can help to release tension and stress. Don't be afraid to moan or groan as you breath out, a lot of women use vocalization during labor and contractions.

Labor breathing techniques - video

This video takes a look at the benefits of deep breathing techniques used during labor.

It is a good idea to remember that even if you decided to have a totally natural labor with no pain relief. You can always change your mind if you find the pain is too much to bare. However the breathing techniques can still help alongside what ever pain relief you choose.

If you can't find the time to go to classes, and are worried about the birth, or maybe you would like more information to help you have a happy relaxed birth. Birthright - Natural childbirth education classes are available online. Birthright say:

~A comprehensive childbirth education program available whenever and wherever you want, without the hassle or expense of traditional childbirth classes, that actively teaches you the skills and techniques you need to ensure a comfortable, safe birth experience for you and your baby~

Take a look here: Natural Childbirth Education Classes

Always talk to your GP or midwife if you need advice about your pregnancy. They may be able to point you in the direction for breathing classes.

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