Let’s face it. Giving birth is not exactly a walk in the park --more like a stroll through Mordor with Frodo and Samwise Gamgee. But, ladies, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll go over ways you can ease the pain of labour without breaking out into tears.
Get Movin'
We know that when you’re in labour, all you want to do is lay down and hope for it all to magically end -- like an episode of your favourite TV show where everything just works out somehow. Newsflash: that doesn't happen (as much as I wish it did). Moving around and changing positions can help ease pain during labor. Here are some examples:
- Walk around
- Stand up
- Squat
- Rock back and forth
Breathe Easy
Breathing properly during labor isn't just necessary for survival--it can actually be quite helpful too! By using proper breathing techniques you can reduce stress, relax your body and focus on something other than the pain.
Here's how to breathe easier:
- Take slow breaths in through your nose.
- As you inhale, count slowly from one to five.
- Then exhale slowly through your mouth while focusing on relaxing muscles.
Repeat this process until next thing you know---the baby is here!
Oh wait...actually there's more.
Go Au Naturel - The All-Natural Way To Relieve Your Pain
For women who want relief but aren’t quite ready for medication or epidurals yet, #naturallabour may offer some hope.
Here are some natural options:
Acupuncture
This one seems pretty cool - tiny needles being inserted into specific acu-points throughout your body...kinda like becoming a modern-day pincushion. Studies have shown that acupuncture during labor can reduce pain and decrease the amount of medication needed.
Aromatherapy
Let's face it, giving birth could get really smelly so why not make it smells nice with aromatherapy? Certain scents, such as lavender or peppermint oils, can help to ease your labour pains.
Hydrotherapy
Fill up a tub of water (which is designed specifically for births), put some bubbles in there if you’re fancy - think about all those reality TV shows where someone gives birth in a bath - but instead of judging them like we did, let’s recognize that they might’ve been doing something right! According to studies,immersions in warm baths may relieve pain during labour.
Don't Knock It Until You Try It: Medication That Can Help Ease Your Pain
There are plenty of options when it comes to medications –some being more invasive than others:
Nitrous oxide
Yes folks --- laughing gas --- isn’t just for Dentists anymore! This sweet-smelling gas has long been used as an analgesic drug and now debuts at Births Worldwide. Inhaling nitrous oxide won’t take away 100% of labour pain but hey --you may find yourself giggling through the discomfort!
Epidurals
One of the most popular forms of medication available for women in labor is epidural (also known as spinal block). Administered through IV fluids require total bed rest from mothers until delivery--so be ready for this one!
Finally...
You got this! We know going into labor can be scary --but understanding your options both natural & medicinal go a long way towards keeping things manageable during delivery day while ensuring everything goes smoothly.
So keep these tips handy whenever that adorable little human inside starts making his/her grand entrance because no matter which route you decide on taking -the most important thing is that you get through it and come out successful!