Non-Medicinal Pain Management During Pregnancy and Labor

Although studies have shown that women who prefer to give childbirth naturally and without epidurals or pain management pharmaceuticals are in the majority, there are still a number of women who prefer the all natural methods. Relatively speaking, pain medications during childbirth have not been used for long. Natural childbirth has been the way of the world for thousands of years prior and there are many methods and ways that have been found effective in dealing with the pain, although none are absolute since the pain during the transitional stage of labor just before the push is excruciating beyond most women's means to control. It all depends on the preparation made beforehand. The modern turn to natural childbirth began in the 1940's with Dr. Grantly Dick Read and his book Natural Childbirth, according to www.pregnancy-info.net. Since then, natural childbirth has consisted mostly of techniques for relaxation and remaining comfortable in the belief that stress and discomfort are factors that lead to additional pain. Here are a few of the methods for your natural childbirth.

Water Immersion
Water, both hot and cold has been effective means of treating labor pains. In the early stages of labor, a shower can be used to pinpoint streams of warm water to the painful areas of the body. This is especially useful for the back. Immersion in warm water is also helpful for belly pain as the water will balance the pressure inside the uterus. During childbirth, labor tubs and water immersion are also used and have shown to be helpful in surveys given by "Listening to Mothers," and reported on www.msnbc.com.

Warm Compresses
Warm compresses can be made with hot water bottles, or more effectively with what is called a rice sock. A rice sock is just that, a cotton sock filled with dry, white rice that can be microwaved. The rice will retain heat and slowly dissipate it through the sock. The sock can be stretched and manipulated to provide relief wherever is necessary, most often under the belly for cervical pain or around the neck to reduce tension.

Massage
Massage is one of the best ways to relieve stress, tension, and muscle pain. A massage of the lower back can do wonders and help in preparation for childbirth, but once it has begun many women find the massage to be uncomfortable.

Ice Chips
Sucking on ice chips is soothing during the pain of labor and they are often provided during labor. The ice chips not only to help cool the head and provide moisture for dry mouth, but also it is a means to divert attention away from the pain. The less you think about the pain and keep your mind on something else, the less you will feel the pain.

Breathing
Using the proper breathing techniques are important in the relief of pain during labor. This is an important aspect of the Lamaze method. Take deep breaths through the nose and breathe out through the mouth. Time the breaths with the beginning of your contractions. Keep a good rhythm and concentrate on each breath. Allow yourself to relax with each exhalation. If you have a chance to take a class in Pranayama Yoga, the yoga of breathing, you will learn many arts for managing pain, stress, and tension through breathing techniques.

Have a Loved One Present
Have a loved one present at all times during your labor, ideally your husband, but it can be anyone who will provide comfort and support while remaining calm. They will instill confidence in you to continue and everything is easier when you know you are not alone. They should be holding your hand and soothing you continuously.

Vocalization
Use the power of your voice to alleviate pain and stress. Those who practice Judo or other martial arts know the power of the "Kiai," which is the yell that accompanies a strike or movement. The voice is a natural way to relieve stress and tension. If you are in pain, then moaning makes a world of difference. The voice does not always have to be a reaction to an outside stimulus; used properly it can be a powerful tool. If you about mantras and vocal yoga, you will understand more fully. Using a persistent, low, sustained moan will bring your mind into alignment with peaceful thoughts and properties and will relieve tension.

These methods of relieving pain through natural childbirth will help you in your endeavor to give birth to a healthy child and although more difficult than with pain medications, the rewards are said to be inversely proportional.