What are Hilary Erickson's signature techniques for ensuring patient comfort during labor?

One core technique is helping patients actively relax their pelvic floor instead of tensing up. That applies during labor and during vaginal or cervical exams, when tension can make everything feel much worse. I also coach people to keep their hips down on the table rather than lifting them, which keeps the pelvic floor softer and exams easier.

Another favorite trick is distraction through movement: changing positions, using hands‑and‑knees, gentle dancing, or even cleaning or cooking in early labor at home. Those activities keep the body moving and the mind off the pain while the pelvis stays loose and open.

I also love simple “body hacks” like wiggling your toes during exams. It is surprisingly hard to clench your pelvic floor while doing that, and many patients feel the exam goes faster and hurts less.

Hydration, small balanced snacks in early labor (when your provider says it is safe), rest, and using your partner to support frequent position changes are all part of my comfort toolkit as well.

Is there a particular part of labor (early labor at home, hospital admission, pushing, or exams) you want comfort ideas for?