Quick answer: Yes, many parents find holding a comb during labour helps. You grip the comb across your palm so the teeth press into the pressure points at the base of your fingers, while having something firm to hold gives you a focus point through each contraction. It is a simple, drug-free comfort tool that works best in early and active labour and alongside other methods.
The comb trick has become a popular birth tip, and for good reason. It is cheap, natural, needs no setup, and gives you something to do with your hands when a contraction builds. Here is why it works and how to use it.
Why a comb can help in labour
Holding a comb works in two ways at once. The first is acupressure. When you grip the comb, the teeth press into points across your palm and the base of your fingers, an area long associated in acupressure with calming and focus. The second is distraction and focus. Concentrating on gripping the comb and on your breathing gives your mind a job, which can take the edge off how intense a contraction feels. This idea of competing sensations dialling down pain is the same principle behind massage and TENS.
How to use a comb during labour
- Hold the comb across your palm, teeth facing in, resting against the pads at the base of your fingers.
- As a contraction builds, squeeze so the teeth press in with firm but comfortable pressure.
- Breathe slowly and focus on the sensation in your hand.
- Relax your grip between contractions.
- Swap hands whenever you like.
A purpose-made comb like the Elle TENS Acu-Comb is shaped to sit comfortably in the palm, but the technique is the same idea.
When does it help most?
Most parents find the comb most useful through early and active labour, when having a calm focus point really helps. As contractions become more intense, many use it alongside other tools such as a labour TENS machine, warm water, movement and breathing. Think of it as one helpful tool in your kit rather than the whole plan.
Is it backed by evidence?
The comb technique is mostly supported by the experiences of parents and birth workers rather than large clinical trials. What it has going for it is that it is simple, low-cost, drug-free and very low risk, so it is an easy thing to try. To understand the acupressure side in more detail, see how the Acu-Comb uses acupressure for labour.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you hold the comb during a contraction?
Across your palm, with the teeth pressing into the pads at the base of your fingers. Squeeze during the contraction and relax between them.
Why does holding a comb help with contractions?
It combines acupressure on the hand with a focus point, both of which can help reduce how intense a contraction feels.
What kind of comb should I use?
A sturdy comb with rounded teeth, or a purpose-made labour comb like the Acu-Comb that is shaped to sit comfortably in the palm.
Does it replace other pain relief?
No. It is a helpful comfort tool that works best alongside other methods such as TENS, water, movement and breathing.
Is it safe?
Yes. It is non-invasive and low risk. Use comfortable pressure and discuss your pain-relief plan with your midwife.
Sources
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, Pain relief during labour. Cochrane reviews on non-pharmacological pain management in labour. The Royal Women's Hospital, Coping with labour.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your midwife about pain relief options for your labour.
Try it for your birth
The Elle TENS Acu-Comb is a simple, drug-free focus tool shaped for your palm. Pop one in your hospital bag.
