Rebozo

What is a rebozo?

The rebozo is a traditional Mexican shawl that is long enough to wrap around a woman's body, with a little extra (about 4-5 feet). The rebozo is a multifunction tool for labor, used to assist the mother into various positions and for relaxation. If you do not own a rebozo, you can substitute a large scarf or piece of fabric.

What does a rebozo do?

When used by a labor coach, the rebozo acts like an extension of your arms. It allows you to help support the laboring mother's weight so she doesn't have to. It can also help to ensure the mother is in the right position.

How do I use a rebozo?

Because the rebozo is so versatile, we are not able to explain all of the ways to use it on this page. However, the basic use of the rebozo for positioning is this:

Place the rebozo around the mother's body so the ends can be held by the coach and the rebozo will help support the mother's weight.
Allow the mother to lean slowly into her position while the coach supports her by holding the ends of the rebozo.

Some sample rebozo techniques:

Have the mother sit in an upright position. Place the rebozo so that it is under the mother's arms and goes over her chest. The coach stands behind the mother, holding the ends of the rebozo to support the mother's weight. The coach can gently sway the mother from this position.

Have the mother get in a hands and knees position. Wrap the rebozo under the mother's belly and around her thighs so that the coach can hold the ends above her. The coach will gently sway the rebozo side to side.

Wrap the rebozo around the mother's eyes and ears, blocking and muffling incoming sights and sounds to help the mother relax.

What would you like next?

Read some Sample Birth Plans and get information to help put your birth plan together.

Learn how exercise in pregnancy can shorten your labor.

Learn ways to handle Childbirth Challenges.

Discover the secrets of being emotionally prepared for labor.

Find easy meal ideas.