Science porn.
Inside a doula's head So now that I've gotten you to click on the blog, you're considered a "captive audience". No turning back now, folks. First let me introduce the topic, oxytocin, and why you need to "fall in love" with it (pun intended).
When you hire a doula, you are hiring more than just the person, you are hiring the virtual lending library of information in her head. And there is nothing a doula loves more than offering you a piece of useful advice that you may not have gotten elsewhere. We live for that shit, and when it works, double score.
When you hire a doula, you are hiring more than just the person, you are hiring the virtual lending library of information in her head. And there is nothing a doula loves more than offering you a piece of useful advice that you may not have gotten elsewhere. We live for that shit, and when it works, double score.
Hey girl, you wanna make some oxytocin? Uh, no thanks Mr. Tesla According to Ray Sahelian, M.D., in an article written here, he says,
"Oxytocin is a hormone that helps relax and reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels. It increases pain thresholds, has anti anxiety effects, and stimulates various types of positive social interaction. In addition, it promotes growth and healing."
See that?! Oxytocin is AWESOME! Every partner, and birthing person, needs to really take the time to get to know about this topic, and realize that helping it occur naturally in the body is the best thing to help you have a natural birth (if that is your plan).
So does this have to do with me? Do you want me to tell you? Let me tell you. You, my friend, the man/partner/other half of the baby making equation, are the one who can get this game started. Oxytocin levels increase during any type of intimate interaction (unless you smell like onions or something. Go shower and try again in this case). With that said, put on your favorite Magic Mike outfit, and get to work!
"Oxytocin is a hormone that helps relax and reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels. It increases pain thresholds, has anti anxiety effects, and stimulates various types of positive social interaction. In addition, it promotes growth and healing."
See that?! Oxytocin is AWESOME! Every partner, and birthing person, needs to really take the time to get to know about this topic, and realize that helping it occur naturally in the body is the best thing to help you have a natural birth (if that is your plan).
So does this have to do with me? Do you want me to tell you? Let me tell you. You, my friend, the man/partner/other half of the baby making equation, are the one who can get this game started. Oxytocin levels increase during any type of intimate interaction (unless you smell like onions or something. Go shower and try again in this case). With that said, put on your favorite Magic Mike outfit, and get to work!
This hippo don't play. Back the eff off, I'm holdin' this space, yo. The first and best thing you and your doula can do is hold the space for your laboring love. Oxytocin can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, but not if she's worried that some over zealous (often well meaning) spectators are watching her gates of life like an episode from shark week. Work with your doula to create a safe and relaxing space for your partner. She needs to know she can count on you to do your job so she can do hers.
Once this is accomplished, your doula may suggest you spend some one on one time with your partner. This is when oxytocin comes into play. There is probably a reason you two made a baby together (Jagermeister doesn't count), and the connection between you will come full circle at the point when you are waiting to welcome your child Earthside. Here are some ways you can get the love juices flowing:
Once this is accomplished, your doula may suggest you spend some one on one time with your partner. This is when oxytocin comes into play. There is probably a reason you two made a baby together (Jagermeister doesn't count), and the connection between you will come full circle at the point when you are waiting to welcome your child Earthside. Here are some ways you can get the love juices flowing:
These frogs know what's up. Cue Marvin Gaye. Sex. Let me say it again. S.E.X. Bow chicka bow wow. NO, not like that. Wear your good undies, make a moment out of it. Have fun. Intercourse and orgasm (for both of you) releases TONS of oxytocin hormones. Also, her orgasm can encourage her uterus to start contracting on it's own. But don't just do it for the baby, do it for YOU (like we're twisting your arm here). When you just relax and enjoy the moments together, nature will take it's course much easier. While you're at it, try nipple stimulation as well.
Overkill for a woman in labor. Just don't bust a hip. Dancing is an amazing technique at any time before or during labor. The natural rhythm of dancing, even just swaying back and forth can help a woman find or maintain the three "R's" (relaxation, rhythm, ritual). Holding onto you, breathing in sync with one another, and being in the upright position (allowing gravity to help labor) are all things that work together to raise oxytocin levels and help keep her calm. Your doula probably wouldn't suggest gettin' jiggy wit' it, or "dropping it like it's hot", but a good smooth sway usually is a place to start. Try to use this time to connect with each other romantically.
***** DO NOT check her hospital gown and say "Yep, made in Heaven"
**** This may get you ejected, just sayin.
Forget oxytocin, a look like this could straight up get you pregnant. Look at each other. Sounds simple right? During an intense rush, or when transition happens, that rhythm you had may falter. Looking into each others eyes signals safety, love, and intimacy. Couple this act with gentle touching or soft words of encouragement. All these things support your partner during labor, and increase levels of oxytocin. You may even want to do this in a shower or tub. Both of these situations are private, giving both of you time to get back into a rhythm and kick start a labor that may have slowed down. Try kissing to increase the connection during a strong rush (contraction) if you feel comfortable.
Resources on oxytocin and why it's A-ma-zing.
Ray Sahelian's Article
Marriage Gems
Oxytocin Rocks
The Art of Sensual Birthing
Ray Sahelian's Article
Marriage Gems
Oxytocin Rocks
The Art of Sensual Birthing
