What are my pain management options?
When people consider childbirth options they often think about the pain and discomfort it can bring. Mama’s everywhere search for management for pain and discomfort. I am going to provide you with some options as well as links that provide more information than I can. Always be educated in every decision you make.
The Epidural, and Nitrous Oxide.
These methods are perhaps the most widely known pain management option for childbirth.
The epidural is a nerve blocker that is administered into the lower back much like an I.V but the tube is longer. The epidural will cause numbness and a loss of some pain from the waist down for vaginal delivery. This may sound like an abosulte dream to you for giving birth. This method of pain relif will often lead to other procedures such as continous fetal monitoring, IV fluids, lack of mobility, cathederization, and a possible need for induction intervention.
What is an Epidural | American Pregnancy Association
Nitrous oxide is a gas you inhale, it’s also known as laughing gas. Opposite to the epidural it is a pain relief option that allows for you to continue to move around while in labor. Mama holds the mask and take continous deep breaths. Side effects can include nausea, sleepiness, dizziness, and vomiting. These effects can be relived with a few normal breaths without the mask because our lungs will naturally clear the gas.
Nitrous Oxide for Pain Relief | Nevada Hospitals | Dignity Health
Massage, and Positioning.
Massage allows a partner, doula or nurse to help ease pain during childbirth. It can relax tense muscles and ease pain, and anxiety during labor. This method can be used alongside other pain management techniques, such as aromatherapy and acupuncture. During back labor many women say that the counter-pressure is very helpful in easing their pain and allows them to open up more to continue with their labor. Massage hasn’t been shown to cause any harm so it is a great pain relief method to keep on tap.
Massage for pain relief during labor - Evidence Based Birth®
There are tons of positions that support birth and ease pain. Birthing on your back and in stirrups is NOT REQUIRED!!! Upright positions specifically help take body weight off of the sacrum which allows the pelvis to expand, also gravity works in your favor to help your baby descend. General movement and repositioning during labor can help to ease pain and speed up labor. Some birth enviorments may not support movement due to continous monitoring, and the epidural inhibits movement. The use of peanut balls, rebozos and your partners support is very helpful in positioning and moving around.
Positioning for Labor & Delivery - Body Harmony Physical Therapy (bodyharmonypt.com)
Childbirth Education, and Doula Support.
These two aren’t so much pain relif methods but an anxiety, and fear reducing methods. Childbirth educators can inform you about any interventions, tests, or complications that can occur. Your childbirth educator can also provide you with a gigantic toolbox of knowledge and coping techniques during labor.
Lamaze Childbirth Education: What You Need to Know (verywellfamily.com)
A doula is very similar to a childbirth educator except they are there for the entirety of your pregnacy, labor, and even the postpartum period. Doulas are your go to for massage, positioning, words of affirmation, relaxation, and breathing techniques to assist you during labor. They can help you have the birth you want and deserve.
Evidence on: Doulas (evidencebasedbirth.com)
Both of these are risk free and evidence-based options to help soothe pain, discomfort, and anxiety during birth.
Take your time to research all your options surrounding childbirth. These are just a few short descriptions to help you dip your toes into research. I look forward to working hard and becoming the support person that every mama deserves! I reccomend checking out both Parents (lamaze.org), and Resources for Parents - Evidence Based Birth® to find quality evidence based information.
with love and peace
Rachel :)
