the labor map pt 3: timing contractions without overthinking it

Explicit content warning

01/01/25 • 29 min

back from the borderline baby: pregnancy & motherhood

Part 3 of our Labor Map Series takes on one of the most essential tools in your labor prep: timing contractions. But here’s the truth—this process is often oversimplified and misunderstood. Timing contractions isn’t just about downloading an app and pressing a button; it’s about knowing when and how to track them, avoiding unnecessary stress, and tuning into what your body is telling you.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through:

• When to begin tracking contractions (hint: early labor isn’t the time).

• Why accurate timing can help you gauge progress without spinning yourself into anxiety.

• Practical tips to avoid common pitfalls, like over-focusing on contraction patterns instead of staying present.

• How to make your partner an active participant in timing so you can focus on riding the waves of labor.

• The intuitive cues that matter just as much—if not more—than a timer.

I’ll also share my personal experience of letting contraction apps take me out of the moment in early labor, and how I wish I’d handled it differently. This episode is designed to help you and your support partner avoid the overwhelm and approach labor timing with confidence and clarity. Prepare to feel informed, empowered, and ready to time contractions with intention, not stress.

CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, OB, or expert—just a fellow human being sharing my personal journey and experiences. What I share here isn’t intended as medical advice. Always trust your instincts and consult with trusted professionals as you navigate your own path.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through:

• When to begin tracking contractions (hint: early labor isn’t the time).

• Why accurate timing can help you gauge progress without spinning yourself into anxiety.

• Practical tips to avoid common pitfalls, like over-focusing on contraction patterns instead of staying present.

• How to make your partner an active participant in timing so you can focus on riding the waves of labor.

• The intuitive cues that matter just as much—if not more—than a timer.

CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

the labor map pt 2: guided visualization for contraction mastery

Welcome to Part 2 of the Labor Map Series, your comprehensive guide to preparing for and navigating childbirth. This episode builds on the relaxation and mindset techniques discussed in Part 1, so if you haven’t listened to that yet, I highly recommend starting there.

In this episode, we focus on a guided visualization designed specifically to support you during contractions. Whether you’re experiencing the early stirrings of labor or the intense waves of transition, this tool is here to ground and empower you. The visualization draws from the techniques we explored in Episode 1, including the Bag of Muscles and Floating Technique, weaving them together with soothing imagery to help you stay calm, present, and in control.

Here’s how it’s structured:

• Introduction (Start of Episode): A brief overview of how to use this visualization during labor and a reminder to integrate these techniques with your partner or support person before the big day.

• Visualization Start (Timestamp ~ 5:40): A meditation bell cues the beginning of the guided visualization. This section takes you through a contraction cycle, helping you visualize your body’s incredible work and stay relaxed.

• 10-Minute Sound Healing Fade-Out: Following the guided portion, soothing tones play to help you reset between contractions. Simply relax and breathe. When your next contraction begins, rewind to the timestamp and start again.

This episode was created with real-world experience in mind. As a mother who gave birth just three months ago, I designed this for exactly what I wished I’d had during my labor. This is audio is meant to be a companion to support you through every contraction, crafted by someone who’s been exactly where you are.

Whether you’re preparing for childbirth or in the throes of labor right now, this guided visualization is here to remind you: you are strong, you are capable, and your body knows exactly what to do.

CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

the labor map pt 4: the six needs of the laboring mother

Welcome to part four of the Labor Map series, a comprehensive guide to labor preparation designed with real-life experience and research in mind. This episode tackles a vital but often overlooked aspect of birth: the six fundamental needs of the laboring mother. These are not luxuries or optional extras—they’re rooted in biology and essential for creating the conditions that allow labor to progress smoothly and naturally.

We’ll dive into the role of darkness, quiet, physical comfort, relaxation, controlled breathing, and rest-like stillness. This episode is an invitation to reflect on your needs, set boundaries, and prioritize what truly supports you during this transformative process.

For many women, identifying and asserting their needs can feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable. We’ll explore why that is and how societal scripts and people-pleasing tendencies can get in the way of creating a supportive labor environment. From limiting unnecessary visitors to creating a calm, private space, this episode will empower you to advocate for yourself and focus on what matters most: your well-being and your baby’s arrival.

Support partners, this episode is for you, too. Learn how to anticipate and meet these needs proactively, so you can create an environment that fosters peace and progress.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to set the stage for labor that feels safe, supported, and in tune with your instincts. And don’t miss the next episode, where we’ll explore the emotional map of labor—a guide to navigating the psychological and emotional phases of birth. Prepare to set boundaries, tune into your instincts, and transform the birth experience into one that truly serves you.

CRAVING MORE? To dive deeper into the Back from the Borderline universe, explore my recommendations and access premium content, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.