Becoming a mother can one of the most exciting and overwhelming phases of a woman’s life. Given the fact that a series of hormonal and bodily changes disrupt a woman’s physical and mental health, it is also one of the most challenging times for a woman.
Labour can be painful, so it’s important to learn about all the ways that you can relieve the pain. It’s normal to experience pain during labor. Before you go into labor, explore your options for coping.
Depending on which stage of pregnancy a woman is in, her body will respond with different sets of symptoms – from nausea, heartburn, headaches to constipation, hemorrhoids, and backache.
You may want to use a combination of pain medication and natural coping methods. It’s also helpful for whoever is going to be with you during your labour to know about the different options, as well as how they can support you.
Some natural methods require a support person to be with you during labour. Natural coping methods include:
- Herbal tea in labor is a useful natural remedy for childbirth. Camomile, Jasmine, lemon balm, and lavender produce a calming effect and are known to have a relaxing effect.
- Breathing techniques are helpful and are taught in childbirth preparation classes.
- Visualize contractions as waves rolling over you. Think of a beautiful mountain meadow or beach to relax between contractions. If you listen to some relaxing music during labor. You may also find it easier to take your mind off your contractions and cope with pain.
- Ask your partner to massage some aromatic oils into your back during labour. Use of aromatic oils may ease your pain during labour by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body’s own natural painkillers.
- Walk and move during labor to reduce pressure in your back and body. Change positions to feel more comfortable, cope with pain, and help labor progress. Unless you have a medical reason to be in a certain position, you can choose from several positions.
- Ask your partner to relax by giving a shoulder massage or by gently rubbing her abdomen during times of contraction. It is important that you empty your bladder and opens your bowels before the final stages of labour to reduce the pressure on the uterus and therefore make pushing more comfortable.
- Take a warm shower or bath to soothe your body and help decrease the pain. You could also put a warm compress or water bottle on your lower back.
- Massage your shoulders and lower back during contractions. Have the person apply firm pressure to your back during contractions to relieve back labor pain.
- Provide acupuncture to help decrease pain. These methods work for some women. You may arrange for a person to come in during labor and delivery to provide you with these services. Please consult your doctor before appointing someone.