Entering the early labor process can be an exciting time if you immediately want to meet your baby. Early labor means the time between the onset of labor and when the cervix has opened to a width of 3 cm, and is different from preterm labor, or labor that begins before 37 weeks of gestation. Unfortunately, in some cases, the initial process of labor can stop. The long labor process lasts for about 20 hours and is usually the result of a slow onset of labor. A halted labor process can be very dizzying. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to speed things up, from changing your body position to creating a calm environment. It's just that, although rare, medical action may be required.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Move to Help Shift Baby's Position
Step 1. Stand up and walk around
Walking can help shift the position of the baby in the womb so that it descends toward the pelvis. That way, the body will send a signal the baby is ready to be born which can trigger the birth process.
Walking up and down stairs can be very helpful in shifting the baby into the right position for delivery
Step 2. Change body position while lying down
If you're too tired to walk up and down stairs, you can still move around in bed to help change baby's position. For example, tilt your body to the right or left and then shift again a few minutes later. Sleeping in the same position will not help the baby move and speed up labor.
- Changing the position from sitting to standing can also help. Try getting out of bed several times an hour. If possible, walk around the room for a while before you lie back down.
- Try lying on your left side. This position will increase blood flow to the baby and reduce pain.
Step 3. Try all fours
The pain in your back will decrease. In addition, you will also help the baby's head turn downward as needed before delivery. Sit on the floor and slowly support yourself with both hands and feet. Place a pillow under your knees if it's more comfortable for you.
However, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor first before trying this position or any other unusual movements or stretches. Make sure the movement is safe for your pregnancy in particular
Method 2 of 3: Trying Other Ways
Step 1. Wait relaxed
Usually, the best thing you can do during a long labor is relax and accept that you have to wait. If your doctor thinks your labor is going normally, there's not much you can do about it than wait quietly. Since you usually don't need to go to the hospital during the early stages of labor, try relaxing at home, such as reading a light book or watching a movie you enjoy.
Step 2. Set up a soothing area
Although more research is needed, some evidence suggests that stress can slow labor. There's nothing wrong with setting up a calming and stress-free area for yourself. This calmness may be able to help you through the early labor process faster.
- Take a look at your room and keep in mind what you don't like. Is the TV sound too loud? Do you think the light is too bright? Do you want a more private atmosphere?
- Do whatever is necessary to make the area around you quieter. As a result, the early process of labor may continue.
Step 3. Take a bath to be more relaxed
Soaking in warm water can relax you and can be helpful if you are experiencing physical pain from labour. While waiting for the development of the labor process, you can prepare a warm bath and then soak until you feel calmer.
Step 4. Try sleeping
While it doesn't always speed up labor, falling asleep can make time seem faster for you. Sleeping during early labor is also great because it allows you to rest. Eventually, you will go through the next labor and have to push the baby out. Sleep can help you gather the energy you need.
Sleep will become even more important if you begin to enter labor early at night
Step 5. Try to stimulate the nipples
Nipple stimulation is known to speed up labor in some women. If you're having trouble getting through the early stages of labor, you can try twisting your nipples with your thumb and index finger. You can also rub your nipples with your palms. If you want, you can also ask your nurse or partner to help you do this.
However, some women's nipples are very sensitive during pregnancy. If your nipples hurt, don't add to your discomfort by trying to stimulate them
Step 6. Try an orgasm
According to some research evidence, orgasm can help the labor process. If you want, you can try to have sex with your partner until you reach orgasm. You can also try masturbating.
Method 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Solution
Step 1. Consult the medication you are taking with your doctor
If you take medications during pregnancy, such as painkillers, there is a chance that these drugs may slow down the labor process. Discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor, and ask if there is anything you can do to speed up labor. If the medication you are taking slows down your contractions, you may have to wait until the drug is out of your body before your labor continues.
Step 2. Use acupuncture or acupressure
If you can, make an appointment for acupuncture therapy during the early stages of labor. Research shows that acupuncture can be beneficial in inducing labor. Even so, doctors do not fully understand what the effect is.
If your partner or midwife knows the science of acupuncture, you can simply ask him for help to speed up labor
Step 3. Have your doctor or midwife break your membranes
If your labor has been stalled for a long time, your doctor or midwife may recommend that your membranes be broken manually to help with labor. This procedure is usually performed during active labor, but can also be performed earlier in certain cases. Only do this procedure if recommended by your doctor or midwife. You should never try to break the membranes yourself.
Step 4. Try a hormone infusion
Syntocinon infusion, or artificial oxytocin, can help with labor. However, the doctor must monitor the baby's heart rate if giving this procedure. This infusion can speed up labor that has stopped.
Tips
- Eat light meals during early labor as you may not be allowed to eat heavy meals once you enter active labour.
- Head to the hospital after your contractions are 5 minutes apart as this usually signals the transition to active labour.
- Try eating spicy food like curry. Although it is not scientifically proven to speed up labor, there are many who report benefits. Apart from that, there's no harm in trying.
