Prepare for Labour: Natural Methods to Ease the Journey

As you near the final stages of pregnancy, you may start thinking about how you can best prepare your body for the labour and delivery process. Botanicals, especially those known as partus preparators, have been used for centuries to support the body during the transition from pregnancy to childbirth. What does partus preparator supplements do? It helps by improving uterine tone which is essential for an efficient labour and delivery. In addition it helps improve the effectiveness of the contractions. A uterus with good tone contracts more effectively which can result in shorter labour and less exhaustion during delivery. It has also shown to help in reducing and or preventing after pain during labour. Partus preparators can also help with speedy recovery after birth. So what are some good partus preparators for labour and delivery

Please refer to this blog to see the FDA pregnancy categories--> Supplements That Are Acceptable and Contraindicated in Pregnancy

Raspberry

Raspberry tea has been a very popular partum preparator on social media. The reason why is because it is a uterine tonic which can help strengthen and tone the uterus. It is also paired well with Urtica doica during pregnancy. However a caution with this supplement is that it can cause constipation. This supplement is categorized as A in pregnancy. 

Black cohosh

Another commonly used supplement for labour and delivery is Cimicifuga racemosa also known as Black cohosh. It has spasmolytic properties in addition to its uterine tonic mechanism. This supplement is categorized as B2 in pregnancy. 

Partridgeberry

Mitchella repens or commonly known as Partridgeberry is known for its uterine tonic and astringent properties. It helps prepare for labour by ensuring smooth birth if it is taken a few weeks before. The caution with this supplement is that it should be avoided in pregnancy except in the third trimester. It also has an interaction with alkaloid-related drugs, digoxin, and iron. Avoid in pregnancy except in third trimester. 

Supplements should not be the only focus on preparing for delivery. Regular exercise and stretching during pregnancy can play a significant role in preparing your body for labour, making the process smoother and less stressful. Gentle exercises, such as walking, can help strengthen the muscles needed for delivery while improving circulation and endurance. Pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels excercise) are particularly beneficial for promoting flexibility and tone in the muscles that will be engaged during labour and delivery. Additionally, specific stretches can help open up the hips and pelvis, creating more space for the baby to move down the birth canal. Prenatal yoga is a fantastic way to improve flexibility, relieve tension, and focus on deep breathing key techniques that can help with pain management during labour. Hip circles and cat-cow stretches are particularly helpful for releasing tension in the lower back and hips, areas that can become tight as your body prepares for the birth.

In summary, uterine tone is essential for facilitating an efficient and smooth labour process. Improving uterine tone helps with stronger, more coordinated contractions, reduces the chances of prolonged labour, and supports postpartum recovery. With all supplements, it is always important to ask your healthcare professionals to see if it safe to incorporate in your routine. 

To learn more about GERD and nausea management click here--> Easing GERD, Nausea, and Vomiting During Pregnancy: Tips for Comfort and Relief