How to Cope With Labor Without Medication

Coping with the labor of childbirth is one of the most challenging things a woman will ever do, and is also one of the most rewarding. Epidurals can cause a dangerous drop in the mother's blood pressure and increase the risk of a cesarean section. Narcotics can cause side effects such as nausea, itching and sedation in the mother, and nervous system and respiratory distress in the baby. While not easy, laboring without drugs is safe and rewarding and increases the chances of a low-intervention birth and better breastfeeding experience. Laboring without medication is not easy, especially in the hospital where pain-relief is tempting, but by preparing well, it can be done.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Birth ball
• Snacks
• Drinks
• Music

1. Take a childbirth education course such as Hypnobabies(TM) or Lamaze(TM). Each type of course teaches different coping methods which will be helpful in labor.

2. Eat healthy and exercise. Take in plenty of protein, and limit simple carbs and refined sugars. Prenatal yoga is excellent for building strength and developing relaxation techniques, and is available on video for those who cannot find a local class.

3. Hire a doula. Research shows that having a doula or labor assistant with you during labor lowers the use of pharmaceutical pain relief by over half, and significantly reduces your risk of having cesarean section surgery.

4. Delay going to the hospital as long as possible. Being in the comfort of your own home makes it much easier to cope with the pain of contractions.

5. Use a birth ball (otherwise known as a fitness or exercise ball). A birth ball is useful for opening up the pelvis when you squat on it, as well as allowing you to assume positions which make it easier for your doula or partner to apply counter-pressure to your back and hips.

6. Use water to relieve labor pain. A large tub is best, because your belly can be completely submerged (some hospitals are equipped with birth tubs, and you can buy or rent your own for a homebirth). Water eases the pain of labor and allows you to get into positions that can help the baby descend. If a tub is not recommended because your water has broken, a hot shower can be soothing as well.

7. Stay mobile. Being able to move around is essential to coping with labor pain med-free. Follow your body's instinct and move into positions that provide the most relief. Request a mobile telemetry unit (fetal monitoring) or have your midwife or obstetrician check the baby's heartrate with Doppler, so that you can keep moving around.

8. Stay fed and hydrated during labor. Eating lightly throughout helps you maintain energy. Going without food for several hours drains your body's resources for dealing with labor.

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Resources

• Find a Doula
• Doula Network