When people think about giving birth, often they think about the pain. Yes, it can be painful, but birth does not have to be, and people deal with pain in different ways.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for everyone. Keep in mind that being in labor and giving birth can be uncomfortable. As you move through the stages of labor, it is normal for discomfort or pain to become more intense. There are options you can use to deal with pain during labor. You can use medicine or other things to help with discomfort. Read on to learn more about ways to manage pain during labor and some of the pros and cons of different methods.
Natural Pain Management Options
There are natural options for pain management. These methods are called non-invasive. They are often used as a first step toward managing labor pain. You can try:
- Breathing
- Meditation
- Hypnobirthing
- Water
- Movement
- Partner Support
Other options may give you more pain relief, but you will need a medical provider to give them to you. You should ask your doula or provider if there are other options where you are giving birth.
Local Numbing Medication
One common medication used during labor is lidocaine (lahy-duh-keyn). Lidocaine is given with a needle to numb a small area of the body. It’s often used when someone needs stitches. There are risks and benefits including but not limited to:
- Risks: Pain or itching where the shot is given or bleeding or bruising. You could have an allergic reaction. Too much of this can be harmful to your system.
- Benefits: The safest form of anesthesia. The side effects stay where the shot is given.
Pain Relief Through an IV
Medicine given through a needle is called intravenous or IV medication. It is used during labor and often is opioids (OH-pee-OYD). These are medications given through the veins. In labor, this is usually a narcotic or opiate. The risks and benefits of this can include, but aren’t limited to:
- Risks: Irritation where the shot is given It does not numb, does not sedate, and it may affect the baby briefly. It may cause trouble breathing, itching, and nausea.
- Benefits: Good for pain relief. Not a very invasive option.
The Epidural
Medication that numbs a bigger part of your body is called an epidural or spinal (also called neuraxial anesthesia (nyuh-RACK-see-uhl)). This can numb you from the waist down. The risks and benefits of medication include, but aren’t limited to:
- Risks: Lower blood pressure, having loss or less ability to move, headaches, and it can slow down labor. There is a risk of bleeding. Recovery can take longer too.
- Benefits: It is a very good form of pain relief. You can still move the upper half of your body. You are still alert (non-drowsy or sleepy). It can let you rest during labor.
Pain Management During C-Section
General anesthesia gives a short loss of feeling. It feels like a very deep sleep. General anesthesia keeps you from feeling pain during surgery or other procedures. This medication is used during a c-section. The risks and benefits associated with this medication include, but aren’t limited to:
- Risks: The most common risks are temporary and mild. These include nausea, vomiting, chills, and confusion. You may also get a sore throat from the breathing tube, which can take longer to recover.
- Benefits: You are in a deep sleep-like state. You will not feel anything.
It is important to remember that there is a risk to all of the options we shared.
We encourage you to do your own research about the options. Ask your doula about your options. Ask your provider about what is best for you based on your health history. Use your support team to help figure out what will work best for you.
And remember – you’re not in this alone. There are resources and support for you every step of the way. Follow us on IG and come back to the blog to learn more.
References:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/medications-for-pain-relief-during-labor-and-delivery