Childbirth and labour

Overview

Childbirth is a natural yet profoundly transformative process in which the body, mind, and emotions work together to bring new life into the world. Labour involves rhythmic uterine contractions that open the cervix and guide the baby through the birth canal. While a normal physiological process, it can be intense and unpredictable, requiring both physical stamina and emotional support ^[1,2].

Positive birth experiences are linked to feeling safe, informed, and supported, while negative, triggering or traumatic experiences may contribute to postpartum anxiety or depression ^[3]​​​​​​. Alongside medical and midwifery care, Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) approaches can nurture calm, confidence, and nervous-system balance throughout pregnancy, labour, and recovery ^[4,6].

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

Labour experiences vary depending on physiological, emotional, and environmental influences ^[2,7]:

• Hormonal and nervous-system regulation – Oxytocin and endorphins promote progression and pain modulation.
• Physical factors – Pelvic alignment, posture, and fetal positioning affect ease of birth.
• Emotional readiness – Fear or past trauma can increase muscle tension and prolong labour.
• Support and environment – Feeling safe, respected, and free to move aids natural progression.
• Medical factors – Induction, pain relief, or assisted delivery may be needed for safety.

Signs and Symptoms

Labour typically unfolds in three stages ^[1,7]:

• Early labour – Regular contractions, “show,” and mild back pain.
• Active labour – Strong, rhythmic contractions, dilation of the cervix, and urge to push.
• After birth – Delivery of the placenta and bonding through skin-to-skin contact.

Common experiences include cramping, pressure, shaking, emotional intensity, and exhaustion, often followed by relief and profound connection once the baby is born.

Holistic and TCIH Approaches

Holistic and Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) care supports both the physiological and emotional aspects of birth, complementing clinical care:

• Mindfulness – Promote calm, focus, and trust in the body’s rhythm ^{[8, 9]}.
• Birth Doulas -  An informed, supported birth provides better birth outcomes^[11].
• Yoga Therapy – Encourages mobility, breath awareness, and pelvic alignment ^[3,10].
• Breathwork or Somatic Therapy– Regulates the nervous system and reduces fear ^[4].
• Massage, Acupressure, Energy Healing– May relieve tension and support comfort ^{[5, 8]}.
• Music or Art Therapy – Foster relaxation, expression, and emotional safety ^[4].
• Counselling or Birth Preparation – Builds confidence and helps process expectations ^[6,9].

Self-Care and Lifestyle Practices

Gentle daily practices can help prepare for and recover from labour:

• Practise slow, rhythmic breathing or guided relaxation.
• Stay active with gentle movement and stretching.
• Create a calm birth environment (lighting, music, supportive people).
• Rest, hydrate, and eat nourishing foods post-birth.
• Seek community or partner support to reduce isolation.

When to Seek Professional Support

Immediate medical support is essential for excessive bleeding, pre-term contractions, or signs of distress in you or your baby. Postpartum anxiety, trauma, or depression also warrant professional care.
A verified SoulAdvisor practitioner specialising in birth doulaing, prenatal yoga, breathwork, or somatic healing can support your physical and emotional well-being throughout childbirth and recovery.