How to Survive Back Labor

Back labor, which can occur in up to one quarter of all labors, is usually very painful. This type of labor, which is due to the baby being in a posterior position with the back of its head pressing up on the mother's spine, can be hard to get through. However, you can survive back labor. Here are some tips on what to do to make it through this type of labor.

Instructions

1. Find yourself a comfortable position. Women who are in back labor may find some relief by leaning forwards over a chair or the side of a bed. They may feel somewhat better if they get down on their hands and knees in an "all fours" position. In addition, squatting on a birthing ball can also help relieve some of the pressure on your back.

2. Take a warm bath or a warm shower if you are experiencing back labor. Warm water on your back can help relax your muscles and help you get through back labor.

3. Have your partner rub or massage your back. He can can use his hands to massage your back or use tennis balls (or another round object) to rub your back. The counterpressure on your back from massage or rubbing can help relieve the pressure on your back from the back labor.

4. Put heat on your back to relieve pain. Heating pads or hot water bottles placed on your back will help relax your back muscles and can relieve pain and pressure.

5. Ask for pain medication. If back labor is too painful for you to treat with drug-free methods, pain medication may be called for. You can usually have pain medication through an IV or medication through an epidural. Be sure to ask your doctor and your nurses about pain medication that may be appropriate for you during labor.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are experiencing back labor, your doctor may want to try and turn the baby from the posterior position to the anterior position (when the baby's face is resting on your spine instead of the back of the baby's head). Turning the baby will eliminate your back labor. Your doctor can help you decide if this is a good option for you.

• Before trying any of these suggestions to help you relieve back pain, be sure to talk to your doctor or nurse. Some treatments might not be suitable for all women in labor. Your medical team will help you choose coping methods right for you.