Pain relieved labour- the drug free option

The dreaded labour pains can sure be eased without the use of drugs. There are a number of drug-free techniques taught in Lamaze classes that you can use for pain relief. Maternal movement and position change When in labour, you can sometimes find that the pain is less when you adopt some positions. You are usually encouraged to find the most comfortable position.

Restriction of movement during labour actually interferes with your finding your most pain relieving position.

Given the opportunity to assume any position on or off the bed during labour process, you would spontaneously adapt upright postures such as sitting, standing, walking and semi- reclining. When you change positions, you alter your relationships between the gravity, uterine contractions, the foetus and your pelvis. This enhances the progress of labour and reduces the pain’s intensity. You should be encouraged to seek comfort in any way that feels right for you.

Counter pressure
This is the use of steady strong force on a spot on the lower back during labour. This is applied using a fist, heel of the hand, or hard/firm object, for example a tennis ball.

Counter pressure alleviates back pain for some women especially in cases of posterior position Presentation (when the baby is facing your front).

Hot and cold compress
This is the use of hot compresses applied on low abdomen, groin, or perineum. Being covered by a warm blanket all over your body or ice packs placed on the lower back or perineum relieves labour pain for some women.

Heat and cold are used and accepted as comfort measures although they relieve pain partially.

Water
Immersion in water during labour offers the woman a relaxing effect hence enhancing release of endorphins nature’s narcotics. This helps you to cope with the pain.

Use of water either in a bath tub or a shower assists in accelerating labour, results in less perineal trauma and helps you to have some control over her birthing process.

Touch and Massage
Use of touch on various parts of the woman’s body sends pain reducing messages. This May be a pat of assurance, a hand on a painful spot, stroking of the hair or a tight embrace.

Massage makes the woman feel better; it improves circulation and enhances relaxation. Use of fingertips, entire hands or kneading are all useful ways of achieving massage relaxation and hence reduce pain.

Other methods include TENS , music, use of focal point and continuous support by the labour partner.

With adequate pain relief any woman can confidently go through labour and achieve normal natural healthy birth.

END: PG 31 /47