The Do's and Don'ts for a Smooth Start

The onset of early labour marks the exciting beginning of the childbirth journey, bringing a mix of anticipation and nerves. Knowing how to navigate this phase is essential for a smoother transition into active labour. In this blog post, we'll explore the crucial do's and don'ts of early labour to help expecting parents prepare and make informed decisions during this initial stage.

The Do's of Early Labour:

1. Hydrate: Staying hydrated is paramount during early labour. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and hinder the body's ability to cope with contractions. Sip on water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich drinks to maintain your energy levels.
2. Rest: Early labour can be a lengthy process, and conserving energy is vital. Take advantage of this early phase to rest and relax. Lie down, take short naps, or practice deep-breathing exercises to prepare for the more intense stages of labour.
3. Stay Calm and Relax: Maintaining a calm and relaxed state of mind is key during early labour. Stress and anxiety can interfere with the body's natural processes. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and peace, such as listening to soothing music, practicing mindfulness, or taking a warm bath.
4. Stay Home as Long as Comfortable and Safe: In the initial stages of labour, it's often advisable to stay in the comfort of your home. This allows you to relax in a familiar environment and reduces the risk of unnecessary interventions. Head to the hospital or birthing centre when contractions are stronger and closer together, or if there are other signs indicating active labour. This can include wearing maternity underwear. Disposable underwear will be your best friend during this stage as they are comfortable and make you feel secure. Try ours today for the best maternity underwear today. 
5. Move Around and Encourage Baby into a Good Position: Gentle movements, such as walking and swaying, can help ease the progression of labour and encourage the baby to move into an optimal position. Utilise different positions, such as hands and knees or gentle pelvic tilts, to enhance the birthing process.
6. Eat Light Meals for Energy: Maintaining energy levels is crucial, and consuming light, nourishing meals can provide the fuel needed for labour. Opt for easily digestible foods like fruits, yogurt, and whole grains. Avoid heavy meals that may cause discomfort.
7. Call Your Provider If Anything Changes or You Feel Unsure: Open communication with your healthcare provider is essential. If you notice any changes or feel uncertain about certain aspects of early labour, don't hesitate to reach out to your provider for guidance and reassurance.
8. Alleviating Pain: You can alleviate same of the pain during labour by stretching or having a birth comb. During a contraction, grip the birthing comb, this will stimulate the acupressure points in your hand causing an endorphin realise and may serve as a distraction. 
9. Have Your Bags Packed: Its important to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go at a moments notice. Some things you make want to include are postpartum briefs can also be overnight pads, peri bottle, and the birthing comb.

The Don'ts of Early Labour:

1. Go to the Hospital Too Early: Resist the urge to head to the hospital or birthing centre at the first sign of contractions. Early labour can be a lengthy process, and arriving too soon may lead to unnecessary interventions. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance on when to make the transition.
2. Get Too Excited and Use Up Your Reserves: While excitement is natural, it's important not to use up all your energy reserves early on. Pace yourself, rest, and conserve your strength for the more intense stages of labour.
3. Call Your Support Team Too Early: While having a support team is crucial, calling them in too early may lead to unnecessary waiting. Save your support team for when you truly need their assistance during the more challenging phases of labour.
4. Tell Social Media You're in Labour: Social media can wait. Avoid the temptation to share your labour journey on social platforms during the early stages. Focus on your well-being and share the news when you're ready and have progressed further into the process.
5. Clock Watch – Have Your Partner or Loved One Time Contractions When They Start Getting More Intense: Constantly watching the clock can increase stress and tension. Instead, designate someone, preferably your partner or a loved one, to time contractions when they become more intense. This allows you to stay focused on relaxation and coping mechanisms.

Early labour is a unique phase that sets the stage for the birthing experience. By following these do's and don'ts, expecting parents can navigate this initial stage with confidence and make informed decisions. Remember, each labour experience is unique, so trust your instincts, communicate with your healthcare provider, and create an environment that supports your well-being. As you embark on this incredible journey, stay calm, conserve your energy, and surround yourself with the right support when the time is right. Wishing all expecting parents a positive and empowering early labour experience.