During labour your mind responds similarly to when you begin a new workout or physical activity. In the beginning it feels difficult and you start an inner dialogue around whether you think you can last the entire time. In that moment it feels like it will always be this tough. Perhaps you tense up, you allow your mind to go elsewhere and start to rationalize the idea of leaving this discomfort. RIGHT HERE is where your mindset can have a massive impact on your experience and endurance, physically and emotionally. 

If you say to yourself “you can do this!”, “you are strong!”, “you were meant to do this!” You just might find that it gets easier. You get used to it. You find a rhythm or a ritual. As a doula I see this in clients in early labour when their bodies are just starting to get used to labour as well as anytime there is an increase in intensity; often just as active labour is starting or during transition (8cm to 10cm). It’s not easy for you to change your mindset on your own so discuss this with your care team and communicate ways they can encourage and support you. Even people who have done a lot of preparation or have birthed before doubt themselves at some point during labour. 

Here are just a few ways you can practice a positive mindset before the intensity of labour begins:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt challenged physically or mentally in your life. How did you get through it? Were you surprised that you did? What did you learn about yourself through that experience?
2. Practice mindfulness every day and notice your thoughts when you are in uncomfortable situations. What happens in your body? Where do your thoughts go? What changes can you do to make the moment more comfortable for you? 
3. Learn about birth. Learn what to expect to help with any anxieties, concerns or doubts. When your mind has an idea what to expect it is easier to manage when you get to that point. With labour and birth it is difficult to practice or anticipate exactly how it will feel but even a small amount of understanding can make a difference. 
4. Prepare your birth team. Speak to them about what you need to have a positive mindset. That might include learning your non-verbal cues and discussing how you will communicate in the moment. Giving them some phrases, strategies or techniques to help you through the difficult times and help you to come back to your ideal mindset, over and over again!

So just like that tough workout when you want to quit, give up and get back to being more comfortable labour can force you to face challenging moments that, with proper support and preparation, can leave you feeling strong and confident as you transition to parenthood.