Why Do Hypnobirthers Use a Comb During Labour?

If you're preparing for childbirth and exploring hypnobirthing techniques, you might have come across a surprising addition to the birth toolkit: a comb. While it may seem unconventional, using a comb during labour is an effective tool for managing discomfort and staying focused. Here's how this simple item can make a big difference in your birthing experience.

How Does a Comb Help During Labour?

By gripping a comb tightly in your hand, the teeth press into specific acupressure points in the palm, triggering the release of endorphins (the body's natural painkillers) and helping to distract the brain from the intensity of contractions.

The comb technique is grounded in the pain gate control theory, which suggests that stimulating non-painful sensations can help block the perception of pain. By gripping a comb tightly, the teeth press into acupressure points in the palm of your hand. This simple action:

Encourages the release of endorphins, your body's natural pain relievers.
Redirects your focus, helping you manage contractions with greater ease.
Provides sensory feedback that helps "close the gate" to pain signals sent to your brain.

Benefits of Using a Comb in Labour

Focus and Calm: Gripping a comb gives you a physical focal point, making it easier to stay in control during intense moments.
Natural Pain Relief: Stimulating the palm's acupressure points may enhance relaxation and reduce discomfort.
Convenience: A comb is small, lightweight, and fits easily in your hospital bag.
Complementary to Hypnobirthing: The comb works well with breathing techniques, affirmations, and visualizations.

How to Use a Comb Effectively

Choose the Right Comb: Look for a sturdy comb with firm teeth that won’t bend under pressure.
Grip It Correctly: Hold the comb so the teeth press into the base of your fingers or palm. Practice finding a grip that feels most natural.
Pair with Hypnobirthing Techniques: Use the comb alongside deep breathing, relaxing audio tracks, or affirmations to create a holistic approach to labour

Testimonial from a Stork Beginning’s Mum

“I thought at first when I read about combs being used in labour that it was a very strange thing to use for pain relief. However, I kept an open mind and practiced using it during pregnancy. Turns out it worked! As soon as I got a contraction, I pressed the comb into my hand, and it distracted me. Who knew something as simple as a comb could have such an effect—I didn’t want to let it go during labour, it was like my little crutch.”

Other Labour Tools to Try

Aromatherapy Oils: Scents like lavender or clary sage can help create a calming environment.
Hypnobirthing Audio Tracks: Guided relaxation can deepen your focus and reduce stress.
Massage: Your birth partner can use gentle pressure or strokes to ease tension.

Join Our Stork Beginnings Classes

At Stork Beginnings, we’re passionate about empowering mums-to-be with tools and techniques for a calm and positive birth. Our antenatal and hypnobirthing classes, covering the Glasgow, East Dunbartonshire and North Lanarkshire areas, offer expert guidance, hands-on learning, and thoughtful touches like our mum-to-be welcome gift box.

Inside the gift box, you’ll find a comb to help you practice this effective hypnobirthing technique. In our antenatal classes, we also teach and demonstrate additional coping methods such as relaxing massage techniques, the use of hypnobirthing audio tracks for guided relaxation, and safe aromatherapy practices to support your labour experience. These complementary strategies work together to create a calm, positive, and empowering environment for you during childbirth. Join us to explore these tools and techniques in depth! Start your journey to a confident and calm birthing experience today!

Get in touch to book your place in one of our upcoming antenatal classes.