Taking a childbirth education class is a good way to find out about your labor and delivery options. Many cover a range of pain-management options. Most teach breathing and relaxation techniques that can help you control pain during contractions.

There are many drug-free methods for reducing the pain and stress of labor and delivery. Here are just a few.

A Support Person or Doula
A support person who stays with you throughout labor and delivery can improve your level of comfort. Many women count on their partners for emotional support and for help with breathing and relaxation techniques they learned in childbirth education classes.

Some women also hire a professional labor assistant, or doula, to provide coaching and support throughout labor and delivery. A doula provides support for both the mother and the partner and can take some of the pressure off the partner during a long or intense labor.

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 the water temperature around body temperature (98-100 degrees F) to prevent fever in the mother and the 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 getting on their hands and knees can ease discomfort.

Other Alternatives
Some studies have found promising evidence for the use of acupuncture and reflexology during labor. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that may help you feel more relaxed during labor. This may in turn help you handle the pain better.

Reflexology is an ancient practice in which pressure is applied to certain parts of the body, usually the soles of the feet. The goal is to positively affect other parts of the body. Reflexology may help relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation during pregnancy.

More research is needed to prove the effectiveness of these and other alternative pain management methods (such as hypnosis). Some women report good results using these methods to manage or reduce pain during childbirth. Speak to your health care provider. Do your own research to see whether any of these techniques may be right for you.

For more information, read Coping with Labor Pain.

January 2007