How to Use a Labour Comb Correctly

How to Use a Labour Comb for Natural Pain Relief During Birth

Labour can feel intense, unpredictable, and—let’s be real—daunting. But mamas, you are not powerless. You can have tools in your birth toolkit that genuinely help you feel more in control, grounded, and supported.

One of our most-loved and mama-approved tools? The Labour Comb.

What Is a Labour Comb?

The labour comb might look simple (yes, it's just a small plastic or wooden comb), but it’s a powerful tool based on the principles of the gate control theory of pain. By gripping the comb in your hand during contractions, the teeth press into acupressure points on your palm. This sensation helps to “distract” the brain and reduce the intensity of pain signals being sent to your brain from the uterus.

Think of it like using your body’s own nervous system to your advantage—natural pain relief with no side effects.

Can I Use Any Regular Comb?

When it combs to choosing your comb, we encourage you to steer clear of a traditional hair comb. There are two main reasons for this.

1. Hair combs are not always reinforced well enough and may be quite flimsy to hold and unable to withstand the strength of your grip well during labour. You may look in to a more sturdy hair comb, however the price of these are often higher than a labour comb.
2. The teeth of the hair comb are often quite sharp, whereas you'll find on a labour comb, they are rounded so as not to cause any additional trauma to your hand. 
3. Labour combs can most definitely continue to be used on your hair following birth and make an excellent detangling tool for wet hair. We especially;y love the design of the Seasons of Mama Hair Comb for this purpose.

How to Use a Labour Comb During Birth

Using a labour comb is incredibly easy and intuitive, but here’s how to get the most benefit:

1. Hold It Firmly in the Palm of Your Hand

Place the teeth of the comb across your palm, just below your fingers. As each contraction builds, squeeze the comb tightly so the teeth press into your pressure points.

2. Use With Each Contraction

This tool is most effective when used during contractions. The stimulation helps shift your brain’s focus away from the pain in your uterus and toward the sensation in your hand.

3. Pair It With Other Comfort Measures

Use your comb in combination with:

• Breathwork or mantras 

• Essential oils 

• A warm bath or shower

• Movement or swaying on a birth ball

The more tools you layer, the more empowered you’ll feel.

4. Use in Early, Active & Transition Labour

The comb can support you from early labour right through to transition. It’s light, discreet, and can be held whether you’re upright, lying down, or even in water.

Why Mamas Love It

• Portable & lightweight – fits in your hospital bag or birth kit with ease

• Instant relief – no setup, no charging, no batteries

• Empowering – gives you something to hold, focus on, and do during each surge

• Partner-friendly – birth partners can remind you to use it, offer encouragement, or even hold your other hand while you squeeze the comb

Final Thoughts from Me Mama I 

Labour doesn’t need to be perfect or pain-free—but it can feel supported, grounded, and yours. The labour comb is one of those small-but-mighty tools we love recommending because it’s simple, affordable, and incredibly effective.

At Me Mama I, we only offer products that are expert-backed, mama-approved, and genuinely helpful—because we’ve been there too.

Looking for more birth support? Check out our Labour & Hospital Bag Collection for empowering essentials to guide you through the big day. ✨

Shop Now:

Labour Comb – Me Mama I

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