A prelabour visualisation example
About the visualisation
Points to consider for recording
Points to consider before you visualise
Visualisation can be a powerful tool in many life situations. It can create a vision to relax the mind and body, to let go of tension and as a learning tool. Many actors use visualisation to move into the character they wish to portray.
The use of visualisation for labour is aimed at 'creating a scene'. Seeing your body going into and working with the labour, seeing your body open and your baby getting ready to be born. Through the visualisation process, the physical information of the labour and birth process is used on an imaginary level.
The following visualisation can be used:
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In the last few weeks of your pregnancy, as an exercise to focus on your labour. |
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During prelabour, to imagine your body opening, getting ready for the different phases and stages of the labour. |
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To mentally encourage the labour, if you have gone past your due date and you wish to avoid medical methods of induction. |
Visualisation may not start labour, but many women have appreciated its ability to calm and centre them. It is easier to go into labour once calm and focussed.
Some women have used similar visualisations to picture their baby turning from a breech position (bottom down and head up position) into a head down position. The intention being a conscious effort let their baby know it is 'safe' to move their head away from the sound of their mother's reassuring heartbeat.
The visualisation can be used to make your own recording. You may wish to ask a friend or relative (with a gentle, soothing voice) to record the visualisation for you. This particular visualisation is a guide only.