Recommendations – What’s in my birth bag?

Birth Combs

Uses the pain-gate control theory to override and reduce labor pain signals.

TENS Unit

Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulus Powerful distraction from labor pain. Sticky pads placed on your back give small electrical impulses. Some report complete relief from labor pain.

Massage Tools

Various stimulation tools ranging for light touch (effluerage) to deep vibration can help reduce pain and increase relaxation in labor.

Essential oils

Clary Sage- shown to boost Serum oxytocin levels.

Peppermint and/or Ginger- Help with nausea in labor

Lavender- Help reduce inflammation, calms and relaxes your body.

Heat and Ice

Local heat can help relax tense muscles, Ice can help with pain, and inflammation. both are helpful distractions in labor. For heat, I recommend a plug in heating pad with a long cord, or microwaveable heat belts. For ice, the old fashioned refillable ice bags you can fill with new pellet ice is best.

Bedside Fan

Labor is a workout! It gets very warm in transition. A rechargeable fan you can mount on your bed can keep you cool without freesing the room for you baby’s imminent arrival!

Birth Ball

I recommend ALL pregnant women have access to an appropriately sized birth ball especially for the third trimester and labor. They come in several sizes to accommodate height differences. 55-75cm. When inflated properly, your knees should be at or slightly below the level of your hips

Peanut Ball

Also sized to your leg length- this tool is vital for positioning your last weeks of pregnancy and during labor to make space where baby needs it for a faster, easier birth.

Insulated spill-proof mug with straw

Hydration is key in labor and postpartum! Having a container that can lay in the bed with you, and that you can sip from without sitting up and that keeps your favorite drink at the desired temperature is so important.