5 Ps of Labor

There are five P words that influence labor and birth that contribute to having a successful delivery. Passenger, passageway, powers, position & psyche. Let’s dive in!

Passenger:

This refers specifically to the baby and its position. Fetal positioning and size are factors for the passenger. Fetal positioning exercises and good maternal posture throughout pregnancy can contribute to an optimal position for the precious passenger. Staying active during pregnancy is also recommended. I highly suggest Spinning Baby Daily Activities (https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/daily-activities/)!

Passageway:

Passageway is the birth canal, including pelvis, cervix and vagina, or where the baby will be descending and traveling during labor. Factors such as pelvis shape & size, as well as maternal activity influence the passageway. Asymmetrical walking such as curb walking (after 34 weeks) can assist in rotating the baby into an ideal spot in the pelvis – it does not engage baby for labor, rather it rotates baby. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Vi8VenbTc9U

Powers:

This refers to uterine contractions and birthing parent’s pushing efforts. The uterus is a muscle that clamps down on its fibers during contractions. Strength, frequency and duration are all factors in how effective these contractions are. Pushing efforts also assist in the birth of the baby. The body has natural oxytocin during these contractions and there is more naturally occurring towards the end of labor. In the hospital, synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) may be used to aid in strengthening. Being upright and having gravity assist you are natural ways to increase oxytocin, as well as nipple stimulation. Trusting in your body is a big factor that can contribute to an increase in natural oxytocin.

Position:

Positioning can also significantly aid in the birthing process. Movement and frequent position changes not only assist in pain relief but in the baby’s descent. Walking, swaying, birthing ball, hands and knees, massage and a peanut ball are all ways to manage labor. Sitting backwards on a toilet is also an option! You can practice them early during pregnancy to feel more comfortable when it comes time for labor.

Psyche:

A relatively new P, psyche includes emotional and psychological well-being. A supportive, calm and relaxed environment does wonders for dilating. There is a reason why we say to stay home as long as you can! In the hospital, it is a new, cold environment unfamiliar to you. You can’t relax as well as you can at home. This is why *some* people dilate AFTER an epidural (contrary to popular belief!) because their body finally has a chance to relax.

Take away:

Although there are other factors can contribute (maternal height and weight, age, number of other deliveries, co-morbidities (diabetes, anesthesia), these are the main influences in a successful second stage of labor. Knowing these Ps and how to maximize them during your labor is essential. If you’d like to know more or get an individual plan for your birth, let’s set up an coaching appointment so you can feel empowered when it’s time!