Doula's Tips for an Easier Labor

Yes, You Were Made for This!

Labor may be intense, but it doesn’t have to feel out of control. Simple things like moving your body, breathing with intention, staying nourished, and leaning on support all work together to reduce stress, keep labor progressing, and give you steady energy. Creating a calming environment and shifting positions can ease discomfort while helping your baby move into the right spot. And through it all, trusting the process brings confidence and peace. Each of these small steps adds up, making your birth experience smoother, calmer, and more empowering.

1. Move Your Body

Movement encourages your baby to descend and helps labor progress. Walking, swaying, lunging, or even sitting on a birth ball can ease discomfort and open the pelvis. Think of it as working with your body instead of against it.

2. Breathe with Intention

Deep, rhythmic breathing keeps oxygen flowing to both you and your baby. Inhale deeply through your nose, exhale slowly through your mouth. This calms your nervous system and helps you stay grounded during contractions.

3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Labor is hard work. Sipping water, electrolyte drinks, or broth, and nibbling on light, easily digestible foods keeps your energy up. Small bites and sips are better than nothing — it helps prevent fatigue later on.

Here is a recipe for super hydration!

4. Create a Calming Environment

Dim lighting, soothing music, essential oils (like lavender or peppermint), and familiar comforts (like your own blanket or pillow) can make even a hospital room feel peaceful. A calm atmosphere supports the natural release of oxytocin, the hormone that drives labor forward.

5. Lean on Support

Whether it’s your partner, a doula, or another trusted support person, having someone to provide comfort, counter-pressure, and encouragement makes labor feel less overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need — touch, reassurance, or quiet presence.

6. Change Positions Often

As a birthworker I call this the 'Labor Dance'. It is not natural to lay in one position during labor. This is instinctual and intentional movement your body knows. Every 20–30 minutes, shift your position. Hands and knees, side-lying, squatting, or kneeling all help your pelvis open in different ways. Sometimes just a little change can make a big difference in progress and comfort.

7. Trust the Process

Labor isn’t always linear. It can speed up, slow down, and take unexpected turns. Trust that your body knows what it’s doing. Each contraction brings you closer to meeting your baby.

“And who knows whether you have come to the reign for such a time as this?”

Esther 4:14