Labor shakes are a common, often surprising, and involuntary phenomenon that many individuals experience during childbirth. This physical response can be unsettling, as it often occurs without conscious control. Understanding this physiological event can help manage expectations and reduce anxiety during the birthing process.
Describing Labor Shakes
Labor shakes manifest as involuntary shivering, trembling, or full-body shaking, often resembling the sensation of being extremely cold or frightened. This sensation can range in intensity from mild tremors to uncontrollable teeth-chattering or muscle clenching. Individuals may experience these shakes in localized areas, such as the legs and arms, or across their entire body.
These shakes typically occur during various stages of childbirth, including active labor, the pushing phase, or immediately after delivery. They are an involuntary reaction. While they can be an unexpected experience, labor shakes are a recognized part of the birthing journey.
Why Labor Shakes Happen
The body undergoes physiological and hormonal changes during labor, which contribute to labor shakes. A surge in hormones like adrenaline, oxytocin, and cortisol plays a role in these involuntary movements. Adrenaline, part of the body’s emergency response system, can cause jitters and tremors as it prepares the body for the intense effort of childbirth.
Hormonal shifts also affect the body’s temperature regulation, leading to changes that can induce shivering. The physical exertion of contractions and the body’s response to pain and stress further contribute to this phenomenon. Receiving an epidural or other anesthesia can also disrupt the body’s temperature control, sometimes causing shaking.
Managing and Understanding Labor Shakes
Labor shakes are a normal part of the labor process and are generally harmless. They are temporary and subside on their own as the body adjusts after childbirth. While challenging to stop entirely, several practical strategies can help manage the discomfort.
Applying warmth, such as with heated blankets or warm compresses, can provide comfort and help relax jittery muscles. Focusing on breathing techniques and seeking reassurance from support persons or medical staff can also aid in coping with the sensation. After birth, skin-to-skin contact with the newborn can help regulate the birthing person’s hormones and reduce stress, often easing the shakes. These shakes are not usually a sign of complications. However, if shaking is accompanied by a fever or other concerning symptoms, or if it persists for several hours postpartum, alert a medical professional.