Page 11 - The Doula Hub - Flip book_Neat

B I R T H P H Y S I O L O G Y

To have a calm and straightforward
physiological birth, the brain needs to

produce oxytocin and endorphins. Their
production is inhibited by adrenaline, so it’s
important that during labour:

• The birth space is protected as a sacred

area – no unwanted intrusions.
• Keep lights low and voices hushed.
• Negative language is avoided.
• As few people as possible in the birth

space – minimal distractions.
• The birthing person can move freely to

birth comfortably.
• Food and drink can be taken as needed.

Labour is not a thinking process. We do our

preferences and planning before, so your
primitive brain can be allowed to take over
from your human brain during birth.

Increased anxiety = increased pain levels
Nocebo effect - perception and expectation

of pain causes pain.
What do other mammals’ stop-start
labours teach us?