Why Laboring at Home Is So Important
When labor begins, many parents assume they should head straight to the hospital.
Usually, that's not the best move.
Home Is Comfortable
At home, you're free to:
Eat
Drink
Walk
Shower
Rest
Watch your favorite show
Comfort helps labor hormones do their job.
Hospitals Are for Active Labor
Arriving too early can sometimes lead to:
More interventions
Increased monitoring
Less freedom to move
More frustration if progress is slow
Oxytocin Loves Relaxation
The hormone responsible for contractions works best when you feel safe and supported.
Think:
Dim lights
Familiar surroundings
People you trust
Not:
Bright lights
Constant interruptions
Feeling watched
What Should You Do at Home?
Walk
Nap
Eat nourishing foods
Hydrate
Take a shower or bath
Ignore the clock as much as possible
The goal isn't to rush labor.
The goal is to let labor unfold.