The best birthing combs to naturally cope with the waves of contractions

Birthing combs are a type of tool used during labor to help manage pain and discomfort in a natural, non-invasive way. They are essentially small, handheld combs that pregnant individuals grip tightly, often pressing the teeth of the comb into their palms.

By holding a birthing comb during contractions, the sharp sensation from the comb stimulates nerve endings in the palm, helping to divert attention from the labor pains. This can help reduce the intensity of the discomfort. The pressure from the comb is also thought to trigger acupressure points in the hand, which can provide relief during labor. They offer a simple, natural way to help manage pain and discomfort. Also, birthing combs are small, inexpensive, and require no special skills or setup, making them an easy-to-access tool in any birth setting, from home births to hospitals.

Best at a glance:

When preparing for birth, it’s important to build up a ‘toolbox’ of comfort measures that you can draw upon on the day if/when you need them. One increasingly popular tool is the birthing comb. Though it may sound surprising, this simple item can offer effective pain relief.

According to Emiliana Hall, the founder of The Mindful Birth Group®, they say: "A birthing comb can actually just be an ordinary comb repurposed to help manage discomfort during labour. By gripping the comb in your hand with the teeth pressing gently into the palm, this tool leverages a technique called the Gate Control Theory of Pain. Essentially, the sensation of the comb’s teeth pressing into your skin can help to “distract” the brain from focusing solely on the sensations caused by the uterus contracting (contractions), says Emiliana

During labour, the birthing comb can be used in various positions depending on what feels most comfortable. It’s a portable, accessible tool, and many find it helpful throughout different stages of labour, particularly during contractions when sensations are strongest.

The comb’s action is rooted in sensory modulation. By creating a secondary sensation (the gentle prickle in the palm), the brain’s focus is shared between this and the contraction. This phenomenon, known as the Gate Control Theory, suggests that these additional sensations can reduce the perception of pain. Holding the comb allows the labouring person to channel energy and tension into gripping, which can provide a satisfying outlet for physical sensations, Emiliana says.

The comb is particularly popular during active labour, as contractions become more intense. Many report that it’s during these strong waves of sensation that the comb feels most beneficial. However, the comb is versatile and can be used anytime from early labour right through to transition (even in the birthing pool), depending on personal comfort and preference, says Emiliana.

The birthing comb offers a different experience compared to other comfort measures like massage or focused breathing. Where massage is soothing and breathing offers internal focus, the comb provides a grounding sensation through physical pressure. While these techniques serve different purposes, they complement each other well. Many people find they can use the comb alongside breathing techniques, alternating between tools based on what feels most effective at the moment, says Emiliana.

One of the birthing comb’s benefits is its simplicity. Small, lightweight, and portable, the comb is easy to hold and reposition as contractions come and go. Its accessibility also means that you can carry it from one room to another, use it in a birthing pool, or even hold it while moving into different positions. If a labouring person feels the need to adjust their grip or position, the comb’s flexibility makes this easy to do without interrupting focus, Emiliana continues.

Generally, a standard plastic comb with rounded teeth is ideal for labour use. Rounded teeth prevent the comb from feeling too sharp or uncomfortable on the skin, and a sturdy design can withstand the pressure of strong grips. Some people prefer wooden combs for their smoother, natural feel. Experimenting ahead of time can help to find the style that feels best, says Emiliana

While the birthing comb is a fantastic tool for many, its effectiveness can depend on individual preference and response to sensation. Some may find the comb distracting or too intense, while others feel it’s highly supportive. Since every birth experience is unique, trying out the comb before labour can provide insight into whether it’s a good fit for you. Combining the comb with other techniques, such as hypnobirthing or breathing exercises, can also create a balanced approach to comfort, Emiliana adds.

Though generally safe and easy to use, the birthing comb isn’t universally suited for everyone. The sensation of the comb can feel too sharp for some, especially if sensitivity to touch increases during labour. Additionally, some people find they don’t enjoy the grip of the comb, especially in prolonged use. In such cases, it’s best to have a variety of comfort measures on hand to allow flexibility in managing sensations, continues Emiliana.

Here, we have carefully selected the best birthing combs to support you during labor, ensuring comfort and effectiveness when you need it most. Each comb in our collection has been chosen for its quality, ergonomic design, and ability to provide natural pain relief through pressure point stimulation and distraction from contraction discomfort. Whether you're planning a natural birth or using other pain management methods, these combs are an excellent addition to your birthing plan.

Best birthing combs 2024:

Remember, the best birthing combs give a simple, yet effective, way to support pain relief and comfort during labor. With their ability to engage the body’s natural pain management mechanisms through sensory distraction and pressure point stimulation, these combs are a must-have tool for anyone looking to have a natural birthing experience.

They are also easy to use, affordable, and portable, and can seamlessly be added into various birth plans, giving a non-invasive option for handling contractions.

And, by choosing a birthing combs, it may help you feel more empowered and prepared to navigate labour with confidence and comfort.

Meet the expert:

Emiliana Hall is the founder of The Mindful Birth Group® which provides award-winning Mindful Natal® courses and the PregnaHub® app, as well as an accredited Teacher Training program and Midwife CPD courses.

She is also an experienced Birth and Postnatal Doula. Emiliana's vision is to make vital antenatal and postnatal education and ongoing support accessible to everyone in the UK.

Mummy to a little girl, Adejumoke Ilori is Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. With a BA hon in Creative Writing, she has worked for digital platforms, where she has empowered women from the inside and out, by sharing real life stories based on relationships, loving yourself and mummyhood.