When it comes to childbirth, it`s important to understand the role and function of contractions. Contractions are a necessary part of the birthing process, and they indicate that your body is preparing to deliver your baby. However, there are some misconceptions and myths surrounding what you should and shouldn`t do during a contraction.
One common belief is that you should push during a contraction to speed up the delivery process. However, this can be dangerous and even counterproductive. Here`s what happens if you push during a contraction:
1. You can exhaust yourself
Pushing during a contraction requires a lot of energy and effort. If you push too hard and for too long, you can tire yourself out and become too exhausted to push effectively when it really counts. This can lengthen the delivery process and even lead to more medical interventions.
2. You can cause tearing
Pushing during a contraction can also cause tearing and trauma to your vaginal tissues. This can lead to painful recovery and even more complications. It`s important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider to know when and how to push effectively without causing harm.
3. You can stress your baby
Pushing during a contraction can also stress your baby. This can cause their heart rate to drop and lead to medical interventions like a vacuum or forceps delivery or even a C-section. It`s important to work with your healthcare provider to know when and how to push effectively while keeping your baby`s safety in mind.
So, what should you do during a contraction?
Instead of pushing, focus on breathing through each contraction. This can help you relax, conserve energy, and let your body do what it needs to do. Your healthcare provider will guide you on when and how to push effectively during the delivery process.
In conclusion, pushing during a contraction may seem like a good idea, but it can be dangerous and counterproductive. Listen to your body and your healthcare provider to know when and how to push effectively and safely during childbirth. Remember, the goal is to deliver a healthy baby, and there are many ways to get there.