The Importance of the Three R's

The process of birth can be a roller coaster ride on all plains. There is an abundance of emotions and sensations that can completely take you over and as things progress and these sensations become more overwhelming it is important that the birthing family falls into the three r's. 

What are the three R's? 
The three R's are a way for the birthing person to cope with the the overwhelming experience that is birth. Birth brings out the most instinctual part of a birthing person and the best thing that those supporting them can do is allow them to fall into their instinctual pattern.

Relaxation
Birth can be very strenuous and draining. As labor progresses it is important that the birthing person preserves energy in-between contractions. This can be done in many ways including: 

• Rhythmic breathing 
• Relaxing the body and allowing the limbs to go limp 
• Active relaxation- Swaying, rocking and/or moaning 

Rhythm 
Rhythm can be employed in many ways: 

• Slow dancing 
• Swaying on a birth ball
• Rhythmic breathing 

Ritual 
Ritual is a very important coping mechanism. It can either be suggested and employed or it can come about spontaneously. Rituals can typically be a combination of rhythm, movement and sound. There is no wrong type of ritual and as long as the birthing person seems to be coping well they should continue with their ritual until they feel a change is in order. As a supporter of the birthing person it is important to observe these rituals so that if the birthing person were to lose this ritual you are able to help them regain it. Some examples of ritual are: 

• Moaning 
• Mental focus 
• The partner stroking the birthing person in rhythm with their contractions

There are many other rituals that can be employed. Ritual is a great time for the birthing person to surrender into their instincts. 

Relaxation, Rhythm and ritual can be beautiful tools to allow a birthing person to cope with the overwhelming sensations and experience that is birth. 

As a Doula I promise to support all types of families in creating and maintaining their own rituals.