As a birth doula, I frequently encounter the shakes with my clients, and not
just after delivery (vag or c/s).  It's a common side effect of epidurals
and just labor in general.  Labor is an intense balance of hormone release
and the body must have some mechanism for dealing with it.  I believe this
shaking is that mechanism.

Here's a quick and easy way to stop the shaking - usually immediately.  I
teach it to everyone in the room because it's so easy to do and makes mamas
feel good almost immediately.

Reflexology point to stop trembling = arches of the foot

If you're standing or sitting at mama's feet:
grasp her right foot in your left hand, left foot in your right hand.  With
your thumbs on top of her foot (pointing toward her, away from you), align
your other 4 fingers longitudinally down her arches, under her foot.  apply
firm, steady pressure to her arches with the tips of your fingers (hard to
do with longer fingernails) until her trembling stops.  Repeat as often as
necessary.  Trembling usually stops instantly, but more severe shaking
requires a firmer grip and longer hold.  This should feel soothing to mom,
not painful at all.

If you're standing next to mama's body (laying in bed):
the grasp is the same, but your thumbs will be pointing toward her toes...

Have fun!

Lanell
_______________________________________
       Lanell Coultas - CD (DONA)
    Texas DONA State Representative
      Birth & Postpartum Doula Care
       (512) 459-3088 * Austin, TX
      http://www.lanellcoultas.com
_______________________________________
"Ask the woman; she will tell you everything you need to know."
-Ina May Gaskin

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