Pain is the word most associated with labor. Women go to great lengths to deal with the discomforts of childbirth. They attend classes, buy products, read books and talk to their friends. However, relaxation is the one essential ingredient, often overlooked, which helps with the reduction of painful contractions. When Moms have fear in labor, their body tenses. When there is tension (opposite of relaxation), there is pain. Relaxation takes away the fear, therefore, reducing tension and pain. You cant have relaxation and tension at the same time.

Relaxation exercises help a mother desiring either a medicated or a natural childbirth. The pregnant mom has to take responsibility before labor to prepare for her birth by practicing relaxation. The more the woman practices before delivery, the faster she can draw upon relaxation when she needs it, making her labor quicker and easier.

PREPARING FOR RELAXATION DURING THE PREGNANCY:

Daily listening to a relaxation CD

Attending a childbirth class that emphasizes relaxation

Sitting on the birth ball to reduce muscle tension

Having pregnancy massages

Practicing breathing exercises

Taking a pre-natal yoga class

Reading Dr. Dick-Reads book Childbirth Without Fear.

REDUCING FEAR DURING LABOR:

Hiring a trained labor assistant or Doula

Having the birth partners continuous presence

Listening to several relaxation CD's

Using a birth ball

Having a massage

Praying

Focusing on objects in the room

Having someone read from the Bible

Listening to music

Dimming lights or turning them off

Correct breathing

Doing yoga exercises

Dancing

Telling yourself that you are not afraid

Listen to your body and do what feels good

When the woman doesnt give in to the fear but rather reacts to the pain in labor as normal, natural and healthy, then the sensations of the contractions are tolerable. The contractions are still strong, intense and maybe even awesome. However, the woman free of fear faces them as a challenge. Relaxation is vital in pregnancy and childbirth to help achieve an easier, faster and more comfortable labor. Guaranteed!