Tocomonitor: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Health Choices
– TOCO number is a measurement of the pressure force produced by the abdomen during uterine contractions
– TOCO numbers are displayed in mmHg (millimeters of mercury)
– Braxton Hicks contractions have a TOCO number between 5-25 mmHg
– True labor contractions have a TOCO number between 40-60 mmHg during the active phase and 50-80 mmHg during the second stage of labor
– Various ways to alleviate contraction pressure or pain during labor
– For Braxton Hicks contractions: changing positions, taking a warm bath, drinking water
– For true labor contractions: breathing exercises, walking, massage therapy, aromatherapy, warm or hot compresses
– Epidural as a form of regional anesthesia that can help with pain during labor
– An epidural can be started at any time during labor but may cause loss of feeling in the lower half of the body and restrict movement
– No guaranteed method that works for everyone
– Different positions like squatting or using an exercise ball can help with true labor contractions
– Mention of loss of feeling below the waist and restricted mobility as potential side effects of epidural