Pelvic Steam for Birth Prep

Steam every day for 10 minutes. If desired you may steam up to three times per day. Steam before bed for deep relaxation.

 Contraindications:

Steaming prior to 36 weeks

Acute Infection

Fresh spotting

Placenta previa

Instructions

What you need:

  • 2 tbs herb formula (plain water is OK too!)

  • 3 quart pot (minimum) with fitted lid

  • Approx 6 cups of water or filled pot

  • Select one: Steam chair/low stool/2x identical chairs*

  • Cloak or blanket for wrapping the body, if recommended by practitioner.

  • 2 towels or large blanket

Preparation:

  • Select a quiet spot for your session. It is preferable to steam before bed as it will allow for a deeper sleep.

  • Set up chair or stool

  • Bring water to a boil, add herbs, cover and simmer on med-low heat for 8 minutes depending on formula.

  • Place pot under steam chair or on stool. If using a stool, wrap the pot in a towel to keep a barrier between legs and pot.

  • Remove lid and test steam on arm. Steam temperature should feel comfortable, never too hot.

  • Wrap body in cloak (if appropriate to recommendations) sit on steam chair or straddle pot.

  • Steam time based on practitioner recommendations. 10 minutes for birth preparation. Do not steam longer than specified.

  • If steam is too hot at any point step away until the temperature is comfortable. Even steam that is almost imperceptible is beneficial. Conversely, overheating can be detrimental.

While steaming:

  • This is a nurturing and nourishing practice. It should feel good!

  • Try not to use phone/device during this time. Listen to music, meditate, read a book about something that lifts your soul.

  • Notice how your body and lower chakras/pelvic floor feels. If you have no specific sensations, that’s ok. Just continue to let yourself relax.

  • Express gratitude to your body, even if going through a challenging time. Believe that you can communicate, learn, and heal your root.

  • Visualize your peaceful and powerful birth. You can even talk to your baby during this time.

  • Feeling an increase in circulation is normal. If you begin to feel dizzy have some water or briefly pause your session.

*Steam chair options:

  • Low step stool with pot on top. The height should allow for you to stand over the pot with legs apart comfortably. Make sure to wrap the pot with towel to avoid burning the legs.

  • Kneel over pot and support the upper body on a chair, bed, couch. Make sure to wrap pot with towel to avoid contact with the legs.

  • Place two identical chairs next to each other with a little space between. Place the pot between the chairs and sit with one bottom on each chair.