Music and/or aromatherapy?

Question

Anyone here use music or aromatherapy during labor? If so, could you tell me about it? Did it help? What music did you use? What scents did you use? Thanks!

Answer 1

I used music, massage and accupressure. My hospital did not allow candles or incense in the rooms (bummer). The music you select depends on your taste. I would suggest taking a selection, because you may find that while you are in labor you need something that you didnt expect. I started off with 80s pop rock, moved into country, spent some time with showtunes, went into classical (Im a Bach person) ended up listening to Handel's Water Music (which is wierd because normally I HATE that piece) and actually delivered listening to Gergorian Chants (after spending some time with Sacred Earth Drums). The OB nurses liked the Sacred Earth Drums and the Gregorians Chants so much they bought them for the unit to have on hand (both have deep rythmical base current to them - good music to push to I guess). The nurses told me that the nature CD that have the water, wind and birds are what people usually bring and end up not working (water=pee=not convienent when in labor).

Take what you think will help you - but be prepared because labor can affect your tastes in ways you cannot expect.

Answer 2

Yes, I used both all three times.

Aromatherapy -
peppermint for nausea
lavendar for relaxation

Music -
I made a CD of a bunch of songs I thought I'd like listening to in labor. With all three kids I listened to Sting. It was so PERFECT when I was just starting to push with my third (a homebirth) "We'll Be Together Tonight" came on. It was so perfect that I was alternating between laughing and crying with joy while pushing because of the music.

ETA:
You don't need candles or incense for aromatherapy. Get some essential oils to use.

Answer 3

I brought all kinds of good stuff and wanted nothing to do with ANY of it!