Learn how to safely use warm compresses during childbirth

The normal delivery process is quite tiring. The muscles can tighten and hurt during childbirth. One thing that can be done to reduce pain during childbirth is by applying a warm compress.

Tips for safe using warm compresses during childbirth

Warm water is believed to help you relax, from stretching your muscles to helping pregnant women during labor. Therefore, many pregnant women use warm compresses, in order to reduce pain during childbirth.

In order to maximize these benefits, of course some tips are needed to use them. Starting from knowing which body parts can be compressed to how to use it.

1. Know the body parts that should be compressed

Actually, warm compresses can be used on any part of the body. Well, below are some parts of the body that are often compressed during labor.

a. Back

Warm compresses can be used on the back during childbirth. Especially for pregnant women who feel back pain during the labor process. Therefore, the feeling of heat emanating from these pads can reduce back pain.

b. Pubic bone (os pubis)

During labor, you will usually feel a lot of pressure on your pubic bone. This happens very often, especially for those of you who suffer from SPD (Symphysis Pubic Dysfunction) while pregnant. Well, a warm compress can be your savior during childbirth, because it can increase mobility and to make your muscles more relaxed.

c. Neck

In addition to the pubic and back bones, the neck is often compressed by warm pads to relieve pain during childbirth. Neck aches and pains during childbirth can be relieved by a pad filled with warm water.

2. Check heat by hand

Don't forget to always check the heat on the compress during childbirth. If it's too hot, sometimes you have to cover it with a towel so that it can be held during labor.

If you or the hospital don't provide warm compresses, here are some alternatives to keep you warm.

Warm blanket
Latex gloves filled with warm water
Bathtub filled with warm water

3. Put the compress just before pushing

Just before pushing your baby out, ask the nurse or doctor to put a warm compress on the perineum. This is done in order to reduce pain in these organs and stretch them in preparation for labor.

If any of the situations below occur, avoid using warm compresses during childbirth.

If you experience skin numbness during the epidural, try not to use warm or cold compresses during delivery. This can bring out a burning feeling in you. Therefore, it is very important that you avoid using hot objects during the epidural. In addition, the use of warm compresses during childbirth is not recommended if you have a high fever.

After you know the safe tips for using warm compresses when giving birth, of course there are several other alternatives to reduce pain during labor. You can also replace the pads filled with warm water with cold water. However, to be on the safe side, check with your gynecologist first.