How can I deliver a baby without pain meds?

For some women, having a baby is one of the worst pains imaginable. For others, it is virtually pain-free.  How can the experience of labor be so different among mothers? How can I deliver a baby without pain medication and not go insane? Here are 8 techniques that may give you some comfort during labor.

I don’t know about you, but I get so upset with myself when I hear someone say that they gave birth without medication.  Not when I went in labor without a plan, scared to death, endured eighteen hours of excrutiating pain and ended up with an epidural.  I wish I knew then, what I know now. If someone could’ve walked me through a plan and told me about these techniques, I know I could’ve done it without meds.

Finding comfort in labor

First, the ultimate key to helping with pain during labor is relaxation.  Relaxation is vital if you want to have a comfortable, natural childbirth experience. Next, it’s important to know that you may have to alternate between these 8 techniques I’m about to list, as the baby rotates and moves down the birth canal and labor progresses.  What worked at first might not continue to work.

8 techniques that may save you from pain meds

1. Counter pressure

This technique is done by applying significant pressure to the painful area - for example, the small of the back. Back labor generally occurs because of the way the baby is positioned.

 2. Environmental conditions

By treating the world around you, you can have a very peaceful labor.  Dim the lights or maybe light a few candles (ask the hospital first). Scented candles or oils may be soothing.  Play soft music, and speak in low voices (avoid chatter). Bring soft items from home, like a blanket or pillow, so nothing feels rough. A soft massage or touch can help, or be irritating, so you will have to see what you like. 

3. Breathing

Lamaze class generally teaches you how to breathe during actual labor, but what about before you begin pushing? One of the best breathing techniques is called "sleep breathing." It should be done softly. Inhale and count to 4. Exhale and count to 8. Think about bringing air into the abdomen by making your belly rise and fall.

Another breathing technique is imagine you are breathing the baby down into the birth canal. By taking air down into your body, envision your body as the letter "J", as air goes in and down through the birth canal. Place your hand on your belly, just underneath the bust area. The area should tighten when you exhale gently.

4. Water

Try getting in the shower and allow the water to slice down where you feel pain.  Some women choose to have their baby in a pool of water to help with relaxation. Talk to your doctor or midwife about your options.

5. Aids during labor   

Some hospitals will allow you to use a birthing ball, kneeler or squat ball. These can take the pressure off your lower back and pelvic.

6. Vocal

Some women choose to sing, hum or moan with each contraction.  Don’t be embarrassed. It might work for you.

7. Visual

Seeing yourself having the baby may help eleviate pain and anxiety - imagine the baby coming down the birth canal and being born.

8. Emotional support

Probably one of the biggest relief techniques. Whoever gets this job needs to be there for you - help you relax. Just knowing that someone is there that cares for you and your baby helps tremendously.

While making your birthing plan, if you decide to do it naturally, without pain meds, then you need to stick to it.  It’s very easy to make those spare of the moment decisions - especially when faced with pain and fear - and you end up with the epidural.  Whoever is in the room with you can help you stick to your decision if you let them know ahead of time. Remember, there is something beautiful that will come out of it - your beautiful baby.

1. Sciatica Pain
2. Leg Cramps
3. Nausea

Good luck.  And enjoy the miracle of birth.

Sources:

Labor Pain Management, Labor Pain Management Techniques, retrieved October 9, 2008 from http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/labor-pain-management.html

If you Enjoyed this post - Please Subscribe so you don't miss a post.
No time to comment, Nothing in particular to say?