How to Cope With Back Labor

Back labor happens when a baby is positioned with its head on the mother's back. Women with back labor are more likely to experience longer labors and much back pain. Lean here how to cope with back labor.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Change your position frequently to relieve pain. One of the best position is lying on the side with a pillow between your knees or squatting.

2. Ask your partner to apply heat or cold compresses on your back. He can also apply counter pressure on your lower back, when you are on all fours, using his hands or a tennis ball.

3. Take a warm shower or a warm bath, which has been shown to relieve back labor pain.

4. Help the baby turn to an anterior position by walking up and down stairs.

5. Go on all fours on the floor, lean over the bed or use a birth ball. Rock your hips from side to side or back to front. This is a great way to relieve back pain.

6. Sit on a chair. It is best that the chair is against the wall to prevent sliding. Ask your partner to kneel, and cup her hands over your knee caps. Ask her to lean forward into your knees. The weight of your partner will press your long thigh bones into the hip joint and will help to reduce labor back pain.

7. Consult your doctor about getting an epidural to relieve pain. You should also know that epidural may increase the risk of delivery complications.

Resources

• Back labor