PAIN RELIEF DURING LABOR

What are my pain relief options?

No matter how much we prepare ourselves for labor – it’s un-doubtfully painful and there are plenty of good reasons why: Firstly the muscles within uterus are working to full capacity, then there’s the 10cm dilation of your cervix, followed by the discomfort caused by the stretched ligaments that hold your pelvic bones together. However the good news is – there are a number of options available:

Non-drug methods of pain relief

Massage or TENS units: both acts in part by giving your nerves a sensation other than pain to transmit to the brain. TENS is a small machine that passes a mild electric current through pads that stick to your back, with self a ministering intensity. Warm baths: floating almost weightlessly in warm water can take the strain off your body and offer soothing relief, especially in the early stages of labor. Homeopathy or alternate remedies: Bach flowers remedy and arnica are well known herbal remedies. However, it is important to consult a qualified homeopath of herbalist and your LMC to ensure it's a viable pain relief option for you.

Drug treatment for pain relief

· Gas and Air (Entonax): Entonax is a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. This is breathed through a mouth piece or mask as each contraction begins and builds up to its maximum effect within 30-40 seconds, then wears as the contraction fades. You can control the mouthpiece and are able to take as much or as little as you need. · Pethidine: administered via injection into your thigh or bottom, Pethidine makes you feel relaxed and sleepy, and unconcerned about the pain. It takes 20 minutes to take affect and lasts for two to four hours. · Epidural: administered via an injection into the lower part of your back, an epidural numbs your pain fibbers from the waist down so you don’t feel the contractions. It takes 20 minutes to administer and about another 5 – 20 minutes for the effect to take place then generally wears off after a few hours.

Being in control

And remember – pain is very subjective, and greatly influenced by your mental attitude which is one aspect of childbirth that you can take control of. Being in control doesn’t mean avoiding all pain relief – it may mean making the decision that’s right for you. Some women have high pain thresholds, but for most it’s not reality. Therefore it is important to discuss each alternate method and their pros and cons with your LMC to choose the right solution for you. In fact, the one thing that can increase the intensity of pain is fear – so the more you are prepared and the greater understanding you have of what’s happening the better the experience will be.