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How can you cope with early labor at home?

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In early labor, aim to save your energy and stay comfortable: rest or doze between contractions, eat light snacks and sip water, try a warm shower, move gently and breathe out slowly through each contraction. Time a few contractions now and then rather than constantly. Check with your provider that staying at home is right for you.

Rest while you can

If contractions start at night, try to stay in bed and doze between them. Lie on your side with pillows around you. Even if you do not sleep, resting now saves energy for later.

Eat and drink

Have light snacks, like toast, crackers, bananas or yogurt, and sip water often. Your appetite may fade as labor goes on, so eat while you feel like it. Try to empty your bladder every hour or two.

Warm water

Many people find a warm shower or bath soothing in early labor. Keep the water warm rather than hot. If your waters have broken, ask your provider whether a bath is okay.

Keep moving, gently

Walk around your home, sway, circle your hips on a birth ball, or lean on the kitchen counter. Change position whenever you feel like it.

Pass the time

  • Watch a favorite show or movie.
  • Listen to music, a podcast or an audiobook.
  • Bake, tidy up, or pack the last few things.
  • Take a short walk close to home, with someone.
  • Call a friend who helps you feel calm.

Ask your provider which pain relief is okay to use at home.

Should I stay home during early labor?

Many people spend early labor at home, where they feel most relaxed, but check with your provider that this is right for you. Call them if anything worries you.

Is it okay to sleep during early labor?

Yes. Dozing between contractions saves energy for later. Lie on your side with pillows around you.

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Popzy is not a medical device. It times contractions and does not replace advice from your midwife, doctor or maternity unit. If you are unsure, or if your waters break, you notice bleeding, your baby moves less or anything feels wrong, call them.