The Importance of Learning Breathing Techniques Before Labor Arrives

Breathing done properly during childbirth can provide many benefits. One of them is to reduce pain during childbirth. Therefore, before the time comes, first learn the correct breathing techniques so as not to be confused when in the delivery room later. In addition to helping reduce pain during childbirth, there are many benefits that you can get by doing proper breathing techniques during childbirth, including maximizing the supply of oxygen for you and your baby, relaxing muscles and calming the mind, and facilitating labor.

Steps to the Childbirth Respiratory Technique

The following are breathing techniques that can be applied during labor:

1. Inhale and exhale slowly

Take a deep breath through your nose and let your stomach swell. After that, exhale through pursed lips (like you're whistling). Use your hands to gently press on your stomach, so that all the air comes out. You can use this abdominal breathing technique in the early stages of labor, between contractions or contractions. Do it casually while relaxing the mind.

2. Relax

Try to relax. When you take a breath, you can think of the word "ri". When exhaling, think of "lex". While doing this breathing, try to remain calm and release any tension in your body and mind.

3. Counting

While inhaling and exhaling, you can count them. For example, when you inhale slowly, count 1, 2, 3, 4. Then when exhaling, count 5, 6, 7, and 8.

4. Pull through the nose, exhale through the mouth

Take a breath through the nose and exhale through the mouth. When exhaling, do it gently and slowly. You can exhale while making a sound like "uuuuuuhhh".

5. Perform pant-pant blow

When contractions occur, apply a breathing technique called pant-blowing. The way to do this is to take a deep breath through your nose, then exhale in two short puffs, and end with a long puff. This breathing technique might sound like "huu huu huuuuuuu". Every 10 seconds, try to breathe 5-20 times. Breathe this way until the contractions stop.

6. Take a breath in between straining

Entering the second stage in labor, you will start pushing your baby out. When the urge to push appears, start pushing. Make a number of times in every contraction. Between straining, take a few breaths. Try to count to five when you push, then take a deep breath. After that, then push back again. Avoid holding your breath and straining for more than 5 seconds, because it can damage the pelvic floor. Another effect that can also occur due to prolonged straining is disruption of oxygen supply to the baby. If you are pregnant, it's good to find out the correct breathing techniques during labor. Ask your doctor or midwife. If necessary, take a pregnancy exercise class to practice breathing techniques, so that you are ready when giving birth.