10 Secrets to an Easier Labor

From exercise to water therapy, check out our guide to what helps -- and what doesn't -- on your big day.

Sarah McCraw Crow

Brooke Slezak

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Keep Fit

"Pregnant women who stay in shape tend to have shorter labors," says Tekoa King, a certified nurse-midwife and an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of California at San Francisco. "Fitness improves endurance, and if you're better able to tolerate labor, you're less likely to end up needing medical intervention." Walk, swim, or take a prenatal-exercise class during pregnancy (after getting an okay from your doctor or midwife).

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Comments (13)

monalisasexydi1 wrote:

Well i have safely delivered my now 12 days old baby girl, born the 11/11/11.I had a vaginal delivery,it was painful but short. I went in 11:00am in the labor room,She was out 12:57pm a few more mins to one.That was surly a blessings from Allah.I believe she was out by 1:00,the clock in there was a few mins slow.Allah knows best.All praise to Allah that she is here safe.

11/23/2011 11:59:32 AM Report Abuse

Luz.esmeralda.estrada wrote:

I have been with my husband 7 years. The last 2 years were heartbreaking because I was not able to get pregnant, and we both wanted a baby so bad. I finally prayed, and left everything to God. God answered, and I am now due in 4 weeks. I just want to give glory to God for his love and faithfulness towards me. This is truly, a miracle baby..I did not need Invitro medicine. It's all God!

10/18/2011 12:05:50 PM Report Abuse

rakhipparekh wrote:

I am 32 weeks pregnant. Myself and my daughter is excited to have baby. I am so thankful to GOD to bless me with Second baby. Good luck to everyone who is going to have baby and get a normal delivery....

8/24/2011 02:44:14 PM Report Abuse

diazyoselin wrote:

im 37 weeks can't wait to have my baby girl in my arms just looking at her...what a huge blessing God has given us

7/15/2011 12:58:30 PM Report Abuse

ummmujahid1 wrote:

im pnly one day way from beeing 34 weeks!!! im having a girl inshallaah so happy,cant wait to see here

3/2/2011 11:39:19 PM Report Abuse