How to transform your hospital room into a birthing sanctuary?

Transforming your hospital room into a birthing sanctuary not only feels good but can also greatly impact how your hormones work during labor. When adrenaline is pumping through our bloodstream, oxytocin can't. Oxytocin is not only the hormone that causes contractions but also the hormone released when we feel safe, calm, and supported. Creating a birthing space where you feel safe, calm, and supported can actually help your labor to progress.

• Lighting: Turn off the bright hospital lights! Bring LED candles and twinkle lights with you. Dim lighting can help labor progress by creating a calming environment that reduces stress and promotes the release of oxytocin, which enhances contractions.

• Clothing: Wear your own clothing! Buy a labor gown that feels cozy and beautiful.

• Music: Create at least two playlists to listen to during labor: one calming playlist and one upbeat playlist.

• Atmosphere: Bring any "special items" you want with you. Examples include pictures of loved ones, pictures of pets, religious items, or anything that brings you comfort.

• Birth Affirmation Card: Place Birth Affirmation Cards where you can see them, read them aloud, or listen to them with soothing music.

Remember, our philosophy at Philomena Birth is that little things can truly make a major impact on your birth and your birth experience. We bring many of these items in our doula bags, but we encourage our clients to pack whatever will bring them comfort and make them feel safest.