A Midwife's Top 3 Active Birth Tools

As a midwife who supports physiological birth, I’m always excited to share tools and techniques that empower women in labour. Having the right support and resources can make a significant difference in your birth experience. Here are my top three active birth tools that I regularly recommend to mothers-to-be. These tools not only encourage natural birth but also support comfort and calm in labour.

1. The Rebozo

The rebozo is a traditional Mexican shawl. During labour, a rebozo can be used in various ways to help ease discomfort and optimise fetal positioning. One popular technique is the "rebozo sifting," where a partner or birth support person gently rocks the rebozo under the pregnant belly, encouraging relaxation and encouraging baby in an optimal position for birth.

The rebozo can also be used for back pain relief by placing it around the hips and using it for gentle counterpressure. It's a fantastic tool that involves your birth team, helping you feel supported both physically and emotionally.

2. The Birth Comb

A birth comb may seem like a simple, everyday object, but it’s a surprisingly effective pain management tool during labour. The comb is gripped tightly in your hand so that the teeth press into acupressure points on your palm. This pressure creates a distraction, stimulating the body’s natural pain-relief response by activating the release of endorphins.

In active birth workshops, I show you how to use the birth comb strategically during contractions to shift your focus and manage discomfort. Many women find this tool helpful, especially when combined with focussed breathing and relaxation techniques.

3. Water Immersion in Labor

Stepping into a warm birth pool offers instant relief from the intensity of contractions. The warmth helps relax your muscles, reduce tension, and ease pain, while the buoyancy allows for more freedom of movement. Being immersed in water can also help create a sense of privacy and calm, encouraging your body to labour in a more relaxed state. Research shows that labouring in water can reduce the need for pain medication and interventions, as the water provides natural pain relief and promotes relaxation.

Ready to Learn More?

These are just a few of the tools that can make a difference in your labour. To dive deeper into how to use these tools, and many others, join one of my Active Birth Workshops. Whether you’re looking for a group session or a private workshop, I offer a comprehensive, hands-on approach that helps you prepare for an active birth with confidence.

Book your spot today!

By investing time in learning about active birth, you’re taking a big step toward a positive, empowered experience for both you and your baby.