Labor advice? ?

[Azure11]

Anyone have any advice on handling labor for the 1st time?  My time is any day now and I could use some good advice or stories. ;)

[ash209356]

Just relax :) and try essential oils. Lavender for calming and the orange for an energy boost since you can't eat.

[MissouriMommaofthree]

The contractions feel like period cramps.  At first they are barely noticeable.  But as they progress they get stronger.  This is when you want to be totally focused on what you are feeling. I find that it helps to moan as you are exhaling.  It's like you are in a deep meditation. You may like music playing.  You may like something nice to smell.  Your lips will get dry and you will be thirsty.  This is the most of what labor is like.  Towards the end it gets harder to rest between the contractions and the progression increases.  I got tired and I also threw up after a seventeen hour labor.  But when I was throwing up my body actually was able to open up and progress better.   Baby came soon after that.  I was pretty active during labor.  Standing, sitting on the ball, squatting on the bed with the squatting bar through contractions.  So I did get tired after all that.  I'm hoping this baby comes sooner.  LOL.  Every labor and delivery is different.

[Deetrel]

I agree with everyone above breathe and focus! Let your body tell you. Don't listen to everyone's horror stories and let it scare you everyone is different and there is no need to scare yourself over something you've never been through! Good luck!  

[kerraayy]

I am reading about hypno birthing and am finding it interesting.   I can't go to classes and just wanted ideas for relaxing.   Hopefully it is helpful. ... I am on a mommy blog on Facebook and a bunch of people recommended it!!! Ordered an iPod nano to make playlists too for before, during and after.   Breathing and relaxing seem important.   Good luck!  :)  ♡☆♡☆♡☆☆♡

[Finurligaida]

Lol, yeah breathe! Actually, to focus on your breathing can make you block the pain and to be more in tune with the labor. Good luck!!

[jahawr89]

I've heard making a Playlist and listening to music can help! I'm going to try that :)

[jbowes]

Lol yes breathe breathe breathe . . . And focus on you and your soon to be arriving baby.

[Azure11]

Lol ok thanks for the advice,  ill remember to breathe! ! ;)

[Maenfayne]

Just breathe and listen to your body. Don't get wrapped up in all the details. Breathe. Keep your focus on your body and baby. Breathe. See a pattern? Breathe. :) you got this momma!