Partner Support: 5 benefits of “Anchoring” during labor

Anchoring during labor involves providing physical, emotional, or mental support to help the birthing person stay focused, calm, and grounded. The birth partner plays a crucial role in this process. Here are five benefits of anchoring during labor and why doulas should teach this concept to their birth clients:

A simple as a hand on the shoulder. That knowledge of "presence" can make all of the difference to the confidence of the mother

1. Increased Calm and Focus: Anchoring techniques, such as offering a hand to hold, using verbal affirmations, or gentle touch, help the laboring person focus on something positive. This reduces stress, fear, and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm during contractions.

2. Pain Management: Anchoring can be a non-pharmacological pain relief strategy. Focusing on the presence and touch of a birth partner may reduce the perception of pain by diverting attention from discomfort and reinforcing relaxation.

Gentle but firm touch, eye contact

3. Enhanced Emotional Support: The emotional connection between the birthing person and their partner fosters a feeling of safety and reassurance. The partner’s presence acts as a stable source of comfort, which can lower stress hormones like cortisol, benefiting the labor process.

4. Increased Oxytocin Levels: Physical touch, eye contact, and verbal reassurance can boost oxytocin, the "love hormone." Higher oxytocin levels can help labor progress more smoothly by stimulating contractions and enhancing bonding between the couple.

5. Reduced Sense of Isolation: Labor can be an overwhelming experience, and anchoring provides the birthing person with the reassurance that they are not going through it alone. The partner’s consistent support strengthens feelings of connection, reducing any sense of isolation during childbirth.