What are some common comfort measures a doula might suggest for early labor?

The correct answer highlights common comfort measures that are particularly effective during early labor. Walking is a natural and beneficial activity that can help facilitate labor progress by promoting the descent of the baby and encouraging contractions. Hydrotherapy, such as using water for labor, can provide excellent pain relief and relaxation, helping to alleviate discomfort. Relaxation exercises help the laboring person manage stress and tension, enhancing their overall comfort.

The other options do include beneficial practices; however, they may not be as commonly recommended or practical for early labor. For instance, while meditation and yoga are valuable for overall mental and physical health, they might not directly address the immediate physical discomfort that can arise in early labor. Similarly, while massage and warm compresses can be effective, they do not encompass the broader range of movement and water-based comforts that are particularly useful at this stage. Lastly, practices like deep tissue massage and acupuncture, although supportive, are generally not the first line of comfort measures during early labor and may not be as universally applicable or feasible in a labor setting.