Doula

Answer: A - Rapid breathing can be a sign that a woman is losing focus or starting to panic during labor, and is not a sign that she is coping well. Most women coping well with labor do something rhythmic during contractions - rocking, tapping fingers, hand movements, etc. These women also seem to develop a ritual - a spontaneous action that they do during each contraction as a means to get through the discomfort. While rhythm and ritual typically cannot be planned in advance, relaxation methods are something that can be practiced before labor starts. The doula and the woman's partner should both be part of this relaxation practice so they can best support the woman during labor.