Doula

Answer: A - The release of catecholamines - the fight-or-flight hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline - can cause uterine contractions to slow and even stop. Some theorize they are responsible for an arrest in, and even reversal of, dilation, as well. The best way to counteract these hormonal changes is to create an environment where the laboring woman feels safe with her privacy protected. Fear is a common response to labor, but it will increase muscle tension and pain. Each woman's emotional reaction to labor is different, but the fears of birth do tend to affect the process.