A Simple Way to Take the Edge Off Labor Pain

Did you know squeezing a comb during contractions may help relieve pain during labor and delivery? 

• The birth comb teeth are squeezed on acupressure points of the hand. This releases endorphins, hormones the body naturally produces to relieve pain. 
• The birth comb also activates the Gate Control theory of pain. The pain created by the comb teeth pressing in the hand blocks, or gates, the pain felt from contractions. 
• In addition, holding the comb distracts the brain and gives a mom something to focus on instead of the contraction. It’s a great option for mothers who want to experience an unmedicated or limited intervention delivery. 

Ask your Brookings Health OB nurse about using one of our birth combs and other pain relief options we have available during labor and delivery.