10 pain relief methods for a drug free labour

You know about the medical help you can have during delivery to cope with pain but what about a drug free labour? Here's 10 methods to consider.

10 pain relief methods for a drug free labour

You may have decided to opt for a drug free labour or you might be keeping your options open with medical pain relief. However you get through your delivery, mothers have plenty of options. The most commonly known method to reduce pain during labour is the use of epidural, or epidural analgesia, to be more exact.

Epidural?

Despite its safety record, the use of epidural could possibly lead to infection, severe headache and drop in blood pressure. In cases like these, the medical team would have to adjust the dosage such that there is no complete numbness and you can push naturally under close supervision for a natural vaginal birth.

Dr. Tan Yew Ghee, a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Raffles Womens Centre, tells us about 10 alternative methods for a drug free labour.

Breathing & relaxation

Use breathing patterns you have learnt at prenatal classes to help yourself relax. This can aid in releasing tension in your body, allowing your uterus to do its work without additional effort or wasting your energy.

TENS (Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulation)

TENS uses electrical currents to numb areas of the body, blocking pain signals to the brain and stimulating endorphin production for a less painful labour.

Acupuncture

Several treatments in the last few months of pregnancy will be required, and this can result in a smoother, less painful labour and delivery.

Acupressure, massage and counter pressure

These touch techniques can aid in relieving pressure or pain and enhance relaxation and release endorphins.

Hot and/or cold compresses

When applied to the lower back, hot and/or cold compresses can relieve backaches, which can really help for a less painful labour.

Aromatherapy

The use of aromatic substances such as essential oils can elicit chemical responses in the body to help you relax during labour.

Music

In addition to reducing our perception of pain and enhancing relaxation, music masks the distracting sounds in the hospital environment to create a more personal atmosphere when delivering the baby. Different types of music are useful at different stages of labour.

Movement, positioning and position changes

Your baby’s position contributes directly to the pain and length of labour. You should feel free to follow your body’s cues to move and change positions frequently. Movement and position changes you can adopt in preparation for labour include walking, swaying, slow dancing, squatting, lunging, and hand-knee positioned pelvic rocking.

Companionship and support

A professional doula or birth companion’s support during labour can improve birth outcomes, reduce the numbers of Caesarean sections, epidurals and other medical interventions, while promoting bonding and successful breastfeeding.

Do you have a natural method which helped you through a drug free labour? Share with us in the comments section below.

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Written by

Cindy Gan

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