Do Affirmations Help with Labor?
Birth is undoubtedly an intense, life-changing experience for every mother. You find yourself more vulnerable than ever, facing parts of yourself that you never knew existed. A great way to go through it is by having the right mindset that makes you feel empowered and reassured.
We recommend doing inner work prenatally, knowing that your body is capable for birth and believing it deeply. We recommend using affirmations during labor when needed. If labor gets difficult or stalls, we sometimes help moms address fears or emotions to help it progress.
What mindset work should you do for labor and birth?
While physically preparing your body is important, mental preparation deserves just as much consideration. Having the right mindset can change your outlook on birth and make you feel more confident going into labor.
Here are different ways you can prepare for labor mentally:
- Do your research
Read articles and books that will help you tailor your expectations regarding labor. Knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety and reduce stress.
- Make a birth plan
Once you research, decide what you want your birth to look like. Draft a birth plan including your preferences for birth styles and birth team. Being prepared can make you feel more in control and relaxed.
- Practice daily affirmations
It’s important to remember that you are the most important person during your labor. The success of your birth and labor is largely dependent on you and your strength. While labor is difficult, if you feel confident and reassured going into it, you have a better chance of completing it.
Do birth affirmations work?
The success of your affirmations mostly depends on how strongly you believe in them. If you don’t trust these affirmations, there is no way they’ll work for you in the way you hope. However, if you truly believe the words you tell yourself or at least try to do so, you have greater chances of turning them into reality.
What are some affirmations I could use?
Repeating positive affirmations can help with motivation, reduce pain perception, and improve labor progression. Affirmations can also help you stay focused and create a positive mindset.
Some examples of birth affirmations include:
- “I trust my instincts.”
- “I am present.”
- “I trust my body to know what to do.”
- “I feel confident.”
- “Each surge of my body brings my baby closer to me.”
- “I am surrounded by love and support.”
- “I am prepared to meet whatever turns my birthing takes.”
- “I relax, and my baby relaxes with me.”
The affirmations you use can be anything that you derive strength from. They can be quotes you like, an excerpt from a book, or even religious phrases. Just know that birth is a miracle that is only made possible by the strength of mothers like you!
If you have any questions, please give us a call!