How to Deal with Back Labor

Back labor is huge problem for one out of four laboring women. Back labor means mom is feeling contractions in her back, rather than or in addition to her front. Back labor contractions are very uncomfortable; often worse than regular contractions. Usually women with back labor do not experience a complete break from contractions, which can make labor very difficult. In addition, some women experience intense back labor contractions, before they are far enough along in labor to be admitted to the hospital.

What Causes Back Labor?

Back labor is caused by a posterior baby. A posterior baby is a baby whose back is against mom's back. The pressure on the ligaments in the spine and pelvis causes back labor. A posterior baby will probably have difficulty passing through the pelvis. However, with time and patience, most posterior babies will rotate to an anterior or front position.

Heat or Cold

Heat or cold packs can be vital for supporting a woman with back labor. If using a cold pack, make sure coach has wrapped it in a towel to prevent burns to mom's skin. Air-actived heating pads such as Thermacare packs may also be a great relief to a laboring mom.

Counter Pressure

Counter pressure can alleviate much of the discomfort of back labor. Counter pressure means that coach is pressing on mom's lower back. Coach will have to do some experimentation to find the exact spot, but the laboring mom will tell you the exact spot to push. Usually thumbs or fists are used to push on mom's back. You can also use rolling pressure.

Rolling Pressure

A variation on counter pressure is using objects that coach can roll across mom's back. Common objects include a rolling pin, cold soda cans and tennis balls. Again, mom will tell you what works and what doesn't.

Use Positions to turn the Baby