20 Ways to Labor Naturally

Natural labor refers to the process of giving birth without the use of any medical intervention. While many women opt for medical pain relief during labor, some prefer to go through the process naturally.

Check out these 20 techniques to ease labor pains and welcome your little bundle of joy into the world:

1. Walking can help position your little one and even bring on contractions.
2. Deep breathing exercises help keep you calm and manage discomfort.
3. A warm bath or shower can ease the aches and pains of labor.
4. A gentle massage from your partner or doula can ease stress and discomfort.
5. Try acupuncture: This ancient Chinese technique can help reduce pain during labor.
6. Hypnosis can work wonders in keeping the body relaxed and stress-free.
7. Keep your mind focused and anxiety at bay with visualization techniques.
8. Prenatal yoga can help you stay flexible and strong for labor.
9. A calm mind equals a relaxed body—perfect for labor— so try meditation out!
10. A TENS machine can help zap pain with small electrical impulses.
11. Squatting widens the pelvic opening and helps the baby move down the birth canal.
12. Dancing can ease the body and encourage the baby to move down the birth canal.
13. Aromatherapy with essential oils can reduce stress and promote relaxation – I prefer placing oils on something that can be removed from the room incase it makes me queasy like a stuffed animal or pillow case.
14. Nipple stimulation releases oxytocin, a hormone that can help induce contractions and reduce pain.
15. Frequent position changes can ease pain and encourage baby to move down the birth canal.
16. Applying heat to the lower back or abdomen can reduce pain and discomfort.
17. Cold therapy reduces swelling and pain. But, keep it to 15-20 minutes at a time.
18. Water can reduce pain and pressure during labor.
19. Tapping on pressure points can ease pain and promote relaxation.
20. Positive affirmations keep your mind focused and anxiety-free during labor. — Once you book a heart-to-heart with us, we have some fun free affirmations for you!

During my last two births, I tried the more natural route. I used a tens machine and massager on my back during early labor as well as relaxation listening to music, and position changes. Once I was in full active labor, I shifted to walking, squats, and lunges. When my transition phase (the worst part of labor) began, I used visualization techniques and pulled into myself. I let my body work how it felt necessary.

These relaxation techniques are truly incredible for your labor and there are actually more! You can use a peanut ball (HIGHLY RECOMMEND), sit on the toilet and let your body work, crazy fun sex, and so much more! If you were to try just one of these techniques, what would it be?