Comfort Management
In a Nutshell
Your body produces natural endorphins and hormonesto ease discomfort in labor but some people also choose to use medical pain relief during their birth.
There are three main medical options for pain relief during labor:
- IV pain medication
- Nitrous oxide
- Epidurals
IV pain meds are typically narcotics injected through an IV into the bloodstream. Nitrous oxide is a gas commonly used during dental procedures that is administered by a face mask or a tube held in the mouth. It is broken down and leaves your body rapidly. An epidural is a catheter placed into the lower spine with a needle. It is used to put narcotic medication just to that area, numbing from the waist down while you remain clear-headed.
Dig Deeper
Your body's natural pain relief
There is a delicate play of hormones between you and your baby during the process of birth. Dr. Sarah Buckley states how “your hormones are your helpers” when dealing with pain during labor. Oxytocin, the “love hormone,” and endorphins help your body deal with discomfort you might feel. They make you feel euphoric and calm like time is fluid and you are deep inside yourself.
Options
Please Do Not Offer Pain Medication
Coping with labor naturally
- Hire a doula to guide you through your birth process: They can support you and your partner at home or wherever you’re birthing, help you make decisions, massage you, comfort you, feed you, and advise you. Doulas are associated with lower epidural rates, lower cesareans, and greater satisfaction after birth. (See “Who’s at your Birth” section)
- Massage
Counter pressure of sacrum (lower back) and hip squeezes
Hydrotherapy, get in the tub or shower!
Get cozy with your partner in a comfortable dark place. Creating a “birth cave” atmosphere can help you feel safe, not like you’re in the open being watched. If you have a partner: cuddle, kiss, and love on them to get the oxytocin love hormones flowing!
Hypnosis, though this method is best when practiced often well before labor starts
Focus on your breathing: Breathe into your belly. Ride the "wave" all the way up and all the way back down.
Use low, deep sounds that loosen your throat and open your cervix. Put your tongue behind your teeth to relax your jaw, which also relaxes the muscles in your pelvis.
Keep moving! Rock, sway, dance with your partner, walk, change positions often! (see “Freedom of Movement” section)
Use warm or cool compresses where you’re holding tension (usually lower back or shoulders)
Massage pressure points in the webbing between thumb and index finger
Use visualization such as waves or a flower opening. Imagine your cervix melting away like butter, your baby moving downward.
Music
Aromatherapy
Distraction techniques such as meditation, deep belly breathing, and laughter!