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Non-Drug Options
Sylvia Wood, RN, CNM, MSN
You can help make your labor more comfortable by learning all you can about drug-free approaches for pain relief. You may want to use these approaches to ease your discomfort early in labor and then add epidural or narcotic pain relievers if you need them. About 20 percent of women rely on drug-free methods alone for labor and delivery.
Taking a childbirth education class is a good way to find out about your labor and delivery options. Many cover drug and non-drug options, and all teach breathing and relaxation techniques that can help you control pain during contractions.
A Support Person or Doula
A support person who stays with you throughout labor and delivery can make a big difference in your comfort. Many women count on their partners for emotional support and encouragement and help with breathing and relaxation techniques they learned in childbirth education classes.
A doula is a trained labor coach who provides support throughout labor and delivery. Many women find that having a doula helps ease their pain even when Dad is present.
Water Therapy
For some women, a soothing bath temporarily reduces labor discomfort. Many hospitals offer soaking tubs for women in labor. It's important to keep water temperature around body temperature (98-100 degrees F) to prevent fever in the mother and the baby.
You shouldn't get in the tub until your cervix is at least 5 centimeters dilated. As long as you follow these guidelines, there should be no risk to you or your baby.
Changing Positions
Changing positions during labor may improve your comfort. Sitting in an upright position may increase comfort and speed contractions in early labor. Squatting may help you later on. Some women find sitting on a birthing ball (a large rubber ball) helpful. Women who have a backache may find that kneeling on their hands and knees can ease discomfort.
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Information specialists at the March of Dimes answer your questions by e-mail and online chat.
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