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Relaxed women labour better. The physiological state of relaxation has positive benefits, and influences our ability to cope. When we feel afraid or anxious, our response is ‘fight or flight’ and we produce stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These inhibit the release of oxytocin and prolactin, adversely affecting labour.

Relaxation is therefore a key factor in promoting normal physiological labour and the wellbeing of mother and child. But in order to relax in labour, it is necessary to diminish the pain and anxiety that are an inevitable part of it. Research shows that it is not the external environment but what could be described as the ‘inner environment’ that is the principal factor in whether a woman can relax in labour. If she is able to ‘go within herself’ this can more than compensate for a lack of external privacy and for unfamiliar surroundings.

Our inner space is always private and hidden, sometimes easily accessible and sometimes we may feel unable to reach it. Practice and experience make it easier, and disciplines such as Yoga teaches techniques that can be learned. But the ability or inabilty to connect with the inner space may be influenced by external or internal factors and/or physical or emotional barriers due to current or past experiences.

Factors most commonly affecting inner environment are worry, fear of the unknown, interruption, distraction and loss of control. The presence of too many people may also destroy woman’s sense of privacy.

If we feel that someone else is looking after what is happening in the external environment, it becomes much easier. You can help her to feel that this is exactly what you are doing. Giving up the need to be in control of events allows us to ‘flow’ with the processes that are going on in our own bodies, overcoming the resistances that we put up and thus greatly facilitating labour.

Tips and tricks

• Remember that every woman is different - try to establish a relationship with her where she can trust you. Do listen what she tells you and hear what she is feeling.

• Try to become more familiar with your own ‘inner environment’ - discover what situations and techniques enable you to tune in to it. The more familiar you are, the easier you will be able to help someone else.

• Laughter has a tremendous power - it promotes physiological relaxation, releases endorphins and reduces the perception of pain. Find opportunities to develop your skills in using humour and build up a store of good jokes!

Further reading

Royal College of Midwives (2001) Brown Study Series Number 1. Midwifery Clinical Practice: the first stage of labour Royal College of Midwives Trust, London

Royal College of Midwives (2001) Brown Study Series Number 2. Midwifery Clinical Practice: the second stage of labour Royal College of Midwives Trust, London

Davis E (1987) Hearts and Hands. 2nd edition. Celestial Arts, California