Before labor - It’s a thing

Helping Baby Find the Right Position:
Techniques for Improving Contraction Patterns Before Active Labor

Many times, labor contractions start on their own, and within a few hours find a regular pattern that is effective and predictable. But, for some women, “on-again-off-again” contractions that don’t seem to be developing a regular pattern can be frustrating. If you are struggling either emotionally or physically with Irregular and inconsistent contractions that don’t seem to be turning into labor, you may want to try a few things that could help.

First, please remember that your body is not broken, and we don’t have to “fix” anything. You will eventually have your baby. Irregular, unpredictable contractions are often a sign that labor will starting in the near future. These pre-labor contractions are just proof that your amazing body is doing little things to prep itself for the upcoming event. It might be awhile before you are really, honestly, in labor. We call it “labor” when you have Predictable, Timeable contractions that get Longer, Stronger and Closer together over time. Until then, we say your contractions are a sign you are warming up or your body may be trying to nudge the baby into a better position so labor can start.

But, if you feel like you need or want to do something we have a few suggestions.

An irregular and inconsistent contraction pattern can be a sign that the baby is not optimally positioned. Implementing specific techniques can help encourage a more regular labor pattern and facilitate the baby's descent.

Below is a video with three strategies that may help. Together, these exercises are called the Three Sisters of Balance. You can use them in a sequence, or just try one at a time. All of them require a support person for safety and comfort. So, ask your doula or partner to help you.

1) Belly Sifting with a rebozo (scarf)

Using a rebozo (a long piece of cloth), gentle sifting can relax the uterine and abdominal muscles.

• How to Perform: With the mother on hands and knees, drape the rebozo over her abdomen. A partner holds the ends and gently lifts and jiggles the belly in a rhythmic motion.

• Benefits: Relaxes tight muscles, promotes optimal fetal positioning, and can help regulate contractions.

2) Forward Leaning Inversion

This position helps create space in the lower uterus, encouraging the baby to reposition.

• How to Perform: Kneel on the edge of a couch or bed, then lower your forearms to the floor, keeping your hips elevated. Hold this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then carefully return to an upright position.

• Benefits: Promotes balance in the uterine ligaments and can assist in repositioning a malpositioned baby.

3) Side Lying Release

This technique uses a static stretch to temporarily enlarge and soften the pelvis, aiding in the baby's positioning.

• How to Perform: Lie on your side at the edge of a firm surface with your top leg hanging over the edge, supported by a partner to ensure stability. Maintain this position for 2-3 minutes, then switch sides.

• Benefits: Releases muscle tension, increases pelvic mobility, and can help the baby rotate into a more favorable position.

Here’s a great video to demonstrate them: How to do Spinning Babies Three Sisters of Balance to help a stalled labor by Flourish Birth Doulas

4) Take a Fast Walk (not a stroll)

If you are rested and ready to get labor going, after you do these positions, try going for a walk. The long stride of a fast walk can change the shape of the pelvis as each leg moves, which can help the baby descend into the pelvis and establish a more regular contraction pattern.

• Benefits: Enhances pelvic opening, encourages effective contractions, and can help the baby descend

5) Circle “8” on a Labor Ball

Another great way to move your body and move the baby is using a labor ball.

• How to perform: Inflate a yoga or fitness exercise ball so it is firm. Most women need a 65 cm ball which positions them so their knees are bent at a 90-degree angle when sitting on it. While sitting, make gentle circles in each direction. You can combine the circles to make a figure “8”.

• Benefits: Enhances pelvic opening, encourages the baby to rotate.

6) Focus on making beautiful memories and having a nice day

It is true that the thing you are focusing on is the thing you are noticing. One really unfortunate habit we have in our culture is to be so focused on the labor that we feel stressed if labor is taking a long time to get going. There is a really good case to be made for just noticing the episodes of contractions and acknowledging them “Nice. I see my body is doing something to prepare for birth.” Then, switch gears to rest, nourish, and create memories. Labor will do what labor will do. And, when it turns into a productive pattern, you will know.

• How to perform: Go out for a meal at a restaurant you love. Or, order food in and enjoy a nice meal at home. Find a good book, movie, or podcast that will capture your attention. Go shopping with a friend. Take a nap. Drink hot tea. Spend a fun family day with your other children - make memories with them that you will all cherish.

• Benefits: Reduces the mental load about labor, which helps you have more mental stamina when you need it after contractions get established and require your attention.

Remember to call your midwife if you have any questions or concerns.

Also call her when you have 12 or more intense, timeable contractions within 1 hour.