Dance Through Labor: An Upbeat Playlist to Get You Through 🎶

Your labor and delivery hospital bag is packed—now let's get you ready to give birth with some upbeat labor tunes.

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In addition to packing essentials, think about creating your own labor playlist. Music can be a powerful tool during labor to keep your spirits up, help you move through discomfort, and create a positive, empowering atmosphere. We recommend having two playlists: one upbeat for dancing through labor and another softer for relaxing.

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Here’s everything you need to know about how music can help, when to use it, and a collection of energizing tracks to keep you moving.

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The Power of Music in Labor 🎵

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Research shows that music can significantly enhance the labor experience. Here’s how:

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• Pain Management: Music may reduce the perception of pain during labor by promoting relaxation and offering a positive distraction.
• Anxiety Reduction: It’s been linked to lower levels of anxiety, helping moms feel calmer and more in control.
• Improved Outcomes: Some studies suggest that listening to music during labor can increase the chances of a spontaneous vaginal delivery.

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Music is a non-invasive and empowering tool, allowing you to take control of your birthing environment. Whether it’s upbeat or soothing, the right playlist can create a comforting atmosphere tailored to your needs.

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When to Use Upbeat Labor Music

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Labor is often divided into three stages:

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• Early Labor: The beginning of your journey. Contractions are mild and spaced apart. Relax, hydrate, and maybe play soothing tunes as you rest.
• Active Labor: Things pick up! Contractions are stronger and closer together. This is the perfect time for upbeat, energizing music to keep you moving and motivated.
• Transition and Delivery: The most intense phase, leading to the birth of your baby. You might prefer quieter, calming music here—or complete silence.

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Upbeat songs are ideal for active labor, especially if you’re using movement like walking, swaying, or dancing to manage contractions.

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We recommend you create a relaxing playlist too! Here's how.

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Upbeat Songs for Your Labor Playlist 💃

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Here’s a collection of energizing tracks to get you through active labor with power and positivity:

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🎵 Pop Favorites

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• "Stronger" by Kelly Clarkson
• "Firework" by Katy Perry
• "Happy" by Pharrell Williams
• "Born This Way" by Lady Gaga
• "Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift

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🎵 Throwback Jams

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• "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor
• "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
• "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and The Waves
• "Dancing Queen" by ABBA
• "Don’t Stop Believin’" by Journey

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🎵 High-Energy Anthems

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• "Roar" by Katy Perry
• "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
• "Can’t Hold Us" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
• "Don’t Stop Me Now" by Queen
• "Let’s Get Loud" by Jennifer Lopez

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🎵 Feel-Good Dance Hits

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• "Levitating" by Dua Lipa
• "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran
• "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
• "Get Lucky" by Daft Punk
• "Hips Don’t Lie" by Shakira

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🎵 International Vibes

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• "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee
• "Bam Bam" by Camila Cabello feat. Ed Sheeran
• "Calypso" by Luis Fonsi feat. Stefflon Don
• "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" by Shakira
• "One Dance" by Drake

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🎵 Empowering Rock and Indie Tracks

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• "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele
• "Dog Days Are Over" by Florence + The Machine
• "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors
• "Shut Up and Dance" by Walk the Moon
• "Sweet Child O’ Mine" by Guns N’ Roses

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Tips for Creating Your Labor Playlist 🎧

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To customize your playlist:

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• Mix Genres: Include pop, rock, R&B, and anything else that makes you feel energized.
• Choose Songs You Love: Favorites that make you smile or have special memories attached are perfect.
• Keep It Uplifting: Positive lyrics can help you stay motivated during tough contractions.
• Time It Out: Have at least an hour’s worth of music ready for each stage of labor.
• Create a Chill Playlist too: Here's our tips and favorite recs.

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Your Village and Your Vibe 💜

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Need more song suggestions? Ask your village through your Villie Baby Page! 🎵 Your friends and family can share their favorite tunes to keep your playlist fresh and meaningful. Plus, your Villie Baby Page makes it easy to coordinate help and share updates while you’re in labor.

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References 📚

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• Evidence-Based Birth: Music for Pain Relief During Labor
• International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health: The Effects of Music Therapy in Labor
• Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics: Music and its Benefits During Labor

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Final Thoughts 🎧💜

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Creating a labor playlist isn’t just about picking songs—it’s about setting the vibe for one of the most transformative days of your life. Whether you’re swaying to upbeat tunes during active labor or resting to calming melodies, your playlist can be a source of motivation, comfort, and joy.

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Consider making your playlist public so others—like your partner, doula, or labor support team—can easily access it. Having them in sync with your music choices ensures the atmosphere stays exactly how you want it.

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And if you’re not sure where to start, revisit an old playlist from a special time in your life, like your wedding dance party or a favorite road trip. These songs already hold happy memories and can make your labor experience even more meaningful.

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Labor is your moment, and your playlist is your soundtrack. Make it uniquely yours and let the music carry you through each step of this incredible journey. You’ve got this! 🎶✨

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