Labor rarely follows a straight line - and that's completely normal and okay.
It's one of the most common things I see with the families I support: labor starts, picks up, and then... slows down. Contractions space out. Progress feels uncertain. Worry creeps in. But here's what I want you to know and remember - this is often completely normal, and your body is doing exactly what it needs to do.
The Ebbs and Flows of Labor Are By Design
Your uterus is a muscle, and like any muscle doing hard work, it sometimes needs to rest. Contractions that slow, space out, or feel less intense aren't necessarily a sign that something is wrong. There may be a natural lull as your body moves through transition or prepares for pushing. These quiet moments are an invitation - to breathe, to connect, to restore your energy for the work ahead.
What Actually Counts as a Labor Stall
True labor arrest has a clinical definition, and it's more specific than most people realize. A first-stage labor stall is only diagnosed when you are at 6+ centimeters of dilation and your water has broken, plus one of the following: no cervical change after 4 hours of contractions - or- no change after 6 hours with Pitocin augmentation. If your water is still intact or you're under 6 centimeters, you are still in early labor, and a true stall simply cannot be diagnosed yet.
This distinction matters, because it means you likely have more time and more options than you think.
Two Paths Forward When Labor Feels Slow
When I'm supporting a client who feels stuck, I always start by talking through what they're experiencing emotionally, because how you feel in labor matters deeply. Then I offer two options:
Option 1: Lean into the rest. Find a comfortable position, eat something nourishing, hydrate, and allow your body to soften. If we're near transition, soaking in the tub can be incredibly restorative. This is also a beautiful moment to reconnect with your partner. Closeness and touch naturally boost oxytocin, your body's most powerful labor hormone.
Option 2: Invite movement. Sometimes the body needs encouragement rather than rest. A gentle walk, or going sideways up a flight of stairs, can help shift baby's position in early labor. One of my favorite techniques is something called "shaking apples". Your support person uses a towel or rebozo across your hips while you're in a child's pose or open knee-chest position, creating a gentle jiggling motion. It might sound odd, but it's remarkably effective. The movement helps release tension in the pelvic floor and encourages baby to settle deeper into the pelvis.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
Understanding the rhythms of labor, and having someone experienced by your side to help you read them can make all the difference between fear and confidence. That's exactly what I'm here for.
If you have questions about birth support or want to talk through what working together might look like, I'd love to hear from you.
Whether you are looking to rebuild in postpartum, wanting to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, or improve your general health- I am here for you. I have 3 openings for 1:1 coaching in February/March. If you want to learn more - fill out my coaching application.
With peace and love,
Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
Doc Halley Solutions
Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc
In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!
If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.
Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:
Looking for a comprehensive birth education that covers more than birth? Join Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth + Family) and I on Sunday, March 15th 2026 10a-3p in West Salem, WI at Coulee Health. Class includes a spot for you + a partner. Light snacks + refreshments provided. You will receive a workbook + 5 hours packed full of valuable information! Register here
I am looking for doulas or women who are ready to take their doula training to join my team! You can learn more here (you will have to request access to view this document).
**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
