Many women feel some pain in their back in labor due to the descent of the baby’s head into the pelvis, causing additional pressure on the back. However, some women experience continuous painful “back labor” due to the baby’s position throughout labor. Some babies find it fun to hang out in what we call “sunny-side-up” or posterior position. So, instead of lying face down, they lie face up, which puts additional pressure on mom’s back as the back of baby’s noggin rests on her back during labor.
Here are some helpful suggestions for back labor:
- Change positions frequently
- Use movement, especially sexy circular hip movements
- Hands and knees positions allow access to the back for massage and use gravity to pull baby toward mom’s belly instead of her back
- Massage and counter-pressure
- Apply heat using a rice sock or bed buddy
- Hydrotherapy – soaking in a labor tub
Another handy, yet sometimes unfamiliar, alternative for many discomforts and dystocia is the use of homeopathics.
Here’s an excerpt from a Midwifery Today article on the topic. “Homeopathic remedies are a safe and effective means of treating a woman experiencing back labour. Homeopathic medicine along with comfort measures such as counter-pressure, hydrotherapy and positioning are very positive means of assisting the baby to move into the most desirable position for birth and result in more effective contractions with a shorter and a less painful labour for the mother. Homeopathic remedies are easy to administer and act quickly and dynamically to alleviate back pain.”
Additional suggestions for all pregnant mamas prior to labor:
- Optimal foetal positioning
- Visit a chiropractor during pregnancy for optimal allignment
