The Power of the Comb: A Surprising Tool for Labour You’ll Love!

When you think about packing your hospital bag or preparing for a home birth, a comb might not

be the first thing on your list, but trust us—it should be! This simple, everyday item is a hidden

gem in the world of labour support. Doulas everywhere love the comb technique because it’s

easy, accessible, and surprisingly effective. Let’s dive into how a comb can make your labour

experience more comfortable and why it’s become a must-have for many birth workers and

parents alike.

How Does Using a Comb in Labour Work?

It’s all about tapping into your body’s natural pain relief system. When you hold a comb tightly in

your hand during contractions, the bristles press into pressure points on your palm. This

stimulates the nerves in your hand, sending competing signals to your brain to help distract from

the intensity of the contraction. It’s called the “Gate Control Theory of Pain”—the idea that your

brain can’t fully focus on two sensations at once. So, by squeezing a comb, you essentially

create a competing sensation, which can help reduce your perception of labour pain.

What Types of Combs Can You Use?

The best part about this technique is that it’s incredibly versatile! Almost any comb will do, but

here are a few tips for choosing one that will give you the most comfort and relief:

Wide-tooth combs: If you prefer a gentler sensation, a wide-tooth comb offers a less intense

pressure on your palm. These are great for early labor or if you have sensitive hands.

Fine-tooth combs: Want to feel a deeper, more stimulating sensation? A fine-tooth comb

provides more concentrated pressure points, which can be great for the peak of contractions.

Massage combs: Some combs have rubber tips or are made specifically for scalp massages.

These can offer a different texture, giving you the best of both worlds—pressure without the

sharpness of bristles.

Wooden or plastic combs: Either material works, but many people find that wooden combs

feel more natural and grounding. Plus, they tend to be a bit sturdier for those deep contractions.

The Best Way to Use a Comb in Labour

Using a comb in labour is super simple! Here’s how to make the most of it:

Hold it firmly: Grip the comb with the bristles pressing into the center of your palm. Some

people prefer holding it with the teeth facing their fingers, while others like the teeth pointing

down into the meatier part of the palm. Experiment with both to see what feels best for you.

Focus on contractions: Squeeze the comb tightly during contractions to activate the pressure

points. As the contraction eases, you can relax your grip until the next one comes along.

Switch hands: If one hand gets tired, swap the comb to the other hand. This can help prevent

fatigue, and keep both hands engaged.

Combine with other techniques: Pair the comb technique with breathing exercises, hip

squeezes, or other comfort measures your doula or partner is providing. It works wonderfully as

part of a holistic labour support plan!

Why Doulas Love This Technique

Doulas are all about simple, effective tools that help birthing people feel more in control and

comfortable—and the comb technique checks all those boxes! Here’s why doulas love using

combs in labour:

Portable and affordable: Combs are inexpensive and easy to throw in any labour bag, making

them a perfect addition to your birth toolkit.

Non-invasive: Unlike medications or other interventions, using a comb is completely natural

and non-invasive. It can be a great option for those who want to avoid medical pain relief or as a

complement to whatever birth plan you choose.

Empowering: Holding a comb and actively squeezing it during contractions gives you

something to do with your hands. It’s a small but powerful way to channel your focus and

energy, which can help you feel more in control during the intensity of labour.

Instant relief: It’s a tool that requires no setup and works immediately. If you feel a contraction

coming on, just grab the comb and squeeze. Simple as that!

It’s versatile: Whether you’re at home, in a birth center, or in a hospital, a comb works

anywhere. Plus, it’s effective for both unmedicated and medicated births, making it a go-to for all

types of labour experiences.

Who knew that something as simple as a comb could become one of your best tools during

labour? The comb technique is a great example of how even the smallest, everyday items can

have a big impact during birth. Whether you’re preparing for your first birth or you’re a seasoned

parent looking for new comfort measures, consider adding a comb to your labor bag—you might

just be surprised by how much you love it!

Doula - Vanessa Hickey