At Joey Mama, we’re all about helping you feel supported, informed, and empowered—especially as you prepare for the incredible journey of birth. If you're looking for a natural, simple and surprisingly powerful tool to help manage pain in labour, let us introduce you to the labour & birth comb.

Yes—a comb. But not just any comb. This clever little tool has been quietly revolutionising birthing rooms all over the world.

What Is a Birth Comb?

A birth comb is a small, handheld tool used during labour to provide natural pain relief. It works by being gripped tightly in the hand, allowing the comb’s teeth to press into pressure points on your palm. This gentle pressure taps into the body's nervous system to help distract and manage labour sensations—especially during contractions.

How Does a Birth Comb Work?

The magic of the birth comb lies in the gate control theory of pain. This theory suggests that the brain can only focus on a limited number of sensations at once. When you grip the comb tightly and feel the teeth against your palm, those sensations compete with the pain signals from your contractions.

In other words, by activating the nerves in your hand, you're helping to "close the gate" on pain signals being sent to the brain.

It's a simple yet powerful technique that requires no batteries, no screens, no cords—just you, your breath, and a bit of trust in your body.

When and How to Use a Birth Comb

You can begin using the comb during early labour and continue throughout. Some mamas like to use it during every contraction, while others save it for the more intense phases, like transition.

Here’s how to use it:

• Hold the comb in your hand with the teeth pressing into the base of your fingers (where your fingers meet your palm).

• Grip it firmly during contractions.

• You can switch hands or hold one in each hand for balance and focus.

• Pair it with birth affirmations or calming breaths for even more grounding.

Why So Many Mamas Love It

What we love most about the birth comb is how empowering it feels. It’s small enough to fit in your hand but mighty enough to make a real difference. It becomes a bit of a talisman—a tool that says, "I’ve got this."

You don’t need fancy machines, hospital equipment, or even a birth suite to use it. It’s portable, affordable, and ready to support you, wherever and however you birth.

What Mamas Are Saying

“I was honestly sceptical, but the comb helped me focus and breathe through the hardest parts. It gave me something to grip and something to do.” – Emma, first-time mum

“I packed the comb in my hospital bag and didn’t put it down once labour started. It became my go-to!” – Jade, mum of two

We love hearing these stories—and we love including a birth comb in our pregnancy and birth gift boxes, because we believe every mama deserves tools that truly support her.

What to Pair It With

The birth comb works beautifully with other calming tools. Pair it with:

• Affirmation Cards – Visual reminders to breathe, surrender, and trust your body.

• Essential Oils – A calming scent can help ground you between contractions.

• Sleep or Calm Tea – For early labour, sipping something warm and soothing helps settle the nerves.

• Soft Muslin Cloths – For cooling or wiping your face as things heat up.

Final Words from One Mama to Another

Birth is intense, unpredictable, and transformative—but it can also be beautiful, sacred, and powerful. Whether you birth at home, in a hospital, or in water, the birth comb is one more way to bring comfort, focus, and control to your experience.

And that’s what we want for you—to feel strong, supported, and ready to meet your baby.