The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that drug-free relaxation techniques like acupuncture and massage do not adversely affect pregnant women or their babies during labor and they may help reduce pain. Of course, drug-free strategies won't provide the level of pain relief that medications do, and more research is still needed on how helpful techniques like acupuncture and acupressure can be with labor pain. Pain relieving: The gate control theory states that your brain can only focus on a few sensations at the same time. By squeezing the comb into the 'Laogong' acupressure point on your palm it acts as a distraction, diverting your brain so your body can adjust to the pain. Acupressure points – The Wave Comb can be used to apply pressure to specific acupressure points on the body that can help relieve pain. These points include the Laogong point on the palm of the hand. And remember: There’s no "right" way to have a baby. You should choose the method you and your doctor decide is right for you, and that includes your pain-management strategies.

A birthing comb is a regular ol’ hair comb. What makes it a “birthing comb” is how you use it. Any comb with teeth (not a brush) will work. Some mamas like the feel of a smooth plastic comb, while others like the natural feel of a wooden comb. It’s the viral labour pain relief tip that has pregnant women whipping down to their nearest Kmart for a hair comb. The little-known technique delves into acupuncture points to help combat the pain of childbirth. If mama wishes to labour/birth in water, she will need to remove her tens but thankfully will have this tool as a constant support during contractions

Where can I buy a comb for labour?

There are a few different kinds of birthing combs on the market. Here are some tips for choosing the comb that’s right for you. Remember, you don’t necessarily need to buy a comb specifically marketed for birth. A plain old hair comb will do if it’s the right one for you. What to Look For In other words… by using a birthing comb, the comb forces your mind to feel something other than just contractions.

The helpful post also included images of how to hold the comb to make sure it hits the right points. In addition, The Wave Comb’s wave-like edge provides added comfort during use, as it conforms to the natural curves and contours of the hand. This ergonomic design makes it easier to use the comb for extended periods without causing fatigue or discomfort. Material: Do you want a wooden comb or a plastic comb? You will only know the answer to this by holding a few different combs in different materials. This difference is beneficial to a woman in labor because you do not need a professional to apply the pressure — you can do it yourself or have your partner do it.

Should You “Comb It Out” When It’s Time to Deliver?

Almost ready for labour? These next few articles are here to help you feel as prepared as possible: Recommendations: Talking with other people who have used birthing combs during their own birth experiences is probably the best thing you can do if you want to figure out which comb to buy. Although everyone’s experience is different, word of mouth is always helpful. While birthing combs are based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, there is no conclusive proof that acupressure works. It could be a placebo effect — thinking that the birthing comb will work might help lower your perception of pain.

It also plays into the gate control pain theory. This theory states that the brain can only focus on a select number of sensations. Because the nerve endings are closer on your hands they reach your brain faster. Helping your body forget about the contractions.” Many people decide they’d like to attempt to give birth without using pain medication. Working through a difficult physical challenge, like giving birth, can often be an empowering and affirming experience. Working with your body on a very instinctive and basic level to bring a life into this world can be transformative. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, which uses needs to stimulate certain parts of the body. However, while acupuncture uses needles to puncture the skin, acupressure simply presses down on the targeted areas for similar results.Don’t just grab a comb and throw it in your hospital bag. It’s important to learn how to use a birthing comb before attempting this method of pain management. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): This is a pain reducer and a mild sedative that can help you feel more relaxed during a contraction. relax so it’s easier to deal with the pain of childbirth. You give yourself laughing gas by holding a small mask to your mouth and breathing in and out with the mask on, then taking it off. Reducing your anxiety about childbirth pain High quality material: Made from sustainable, waterproof, splinter-free peach wood. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the wood for ultimate relaxation. This is important not only so that you can get used to using the comb and learn how to do so in a comfortable way, but also so that you already know what to do when it’s time to use it. Partners — stay calm. The person you are assisting is experiencing something unpredictable, even if it is not her first time giving birth.

While each of these behaviors provides mild discomfort on its own, dispersing your agony over a larger area reduces the overall pain you experience at the moment. In the same way, squeezing a fine-tooth comb to trigger discomfort in your hand is an efficient way to relieve labor pain and discomfort. Should You “Comb It Out” When It’s Time to Deliver? So, in the weeks before your due date, you’ll probably want to learn all your options to manage the discomfort that comes with labor, including options that don’t involve medication.A birthing comb looks just like a hair comb, but it is used for a very different purpose. These handheld tools are intended to apply pressure to acupressure points that help to relieve labor pain. They usually have two rows of teeth and may have a curved handle. How Does a Birthing Comb Work?