Mums-to-be advised to use comb during childbirth to try and ease labour pains

Yes, really.

Mums-to-be have been urged to use a comb during childbirth in an effort to ease labour pains. Packing your hospital bag when you are nearing the end of your pregnancy is, to many expectant mums, the moment when you actually realize that this is really happening. But besides all of the standard bits  you are required to bring (and the ones it would just be handy to have), it turns out there is one item to add to your list: a comb. An American birth photography and videography company have said that the teeth on the comb can actually help hit acupuncture points in your hands - and distract from the pain. In a post on Facebook, Fox Valley Birth and Baby said:

"When gripped in your hands, a comb can help hit acupuncture points in your hands. "It also plays into the gate control pain theory. This theory states that the brain can only focus on a select number of sensations. "Because the nerve endings are closer on your hands they reach your brain faster. Helping your body forget about the contractions."

The post has gotten more than 14,000 comments since it was first shared last month, with many mums saying they had packed a comb in their bag - and other mums-to-be admitting they'll using the idea. The company suggested that anyone who is thinking of using the trick let the comb sit at the base of the fingers, with the teeth pressing into the palm of your hand. And while this may not work for everyone, it would definitely be worth a shot.