Truly, to have a baby, all you need is a mum, and a baby… but there are several things that might make you feel nurtured, more comfortable, safe, and relaxed!
Pain Relief
Most of us, at some point experience some level of discomfort in labour. There are many women who can interpret the sensations as pleasant, or intereting, or orgasmic – but for those of us who can’t, having some tools at hand to help with the pain, is very useful.
- Hot towels (Try cloth nappies in VERY hot water in a nappy bucket (use gloves to wring them out)
- Wheat packs
- Tennis balls and rolling pins, for counter pressure massage
- Massage oil (try aromatherapy)
- Birth Pool/Shower/Bath/ all of the above!
- Icecream bucket full of marbles to stand on (This one worked for me, it put pressure in all the right places)
- TENS machine (hire or buy one)
- a big poster of accurpressure points
- a big poster of labouring positions
For staying calm and Nurturing
As I mentioned above, your mind enters a lot into labour, and your emotions and thoughts can help or hinder the progress of your birth. Having some tools on hand to help you remain calm, and focussed can be a blessing.
- Affirmation Cards (make your own or buy)
- Affirmation posters/flags/ pictures on the wall
- Low, rhythmic music (such as chanting)
- Homeopathics and or Flower Essences (Try Rescue Remedy)
- Aromatherapy Oils
- Curtains to make it dark!!
For the birth
- Towels(At least 12 if you’re waterbirthing)
- Tarp for the floor
- Old sheets for the bed
- Something non slip i.e. bath mats, for bathroom and toilet.
- Icecream bucket, or bowl for the placenta
- Cloth nappies to wrap the placenta in, if you’re lotus birthing
- Nice, soft, warm blanket to wrap mum and bub in after the birth
- Food for labour, and lots of food for afterwards!
- Birthday cake for the new arrival!
