Childbirth is a long-awaited and terrifying phase of pregnancy. After
nine months of being pregnant, most women will most likely be anxiously
awaiting labor. Childbirth is generally a rather painful and
uncomfortable experience. Despite this discomfort and labor pain, the
following labor tips will help to ease the process. Natural labor pain
management is possible with various drug-free techniques.
Labor pain management
Rhythmic Breathing Techniques
This
is a very popular natural labor pain management technique. It is
generally taught in childbirth or "lamaze" classes. This type of
breathing also helps to conserve energy for the duration of labor.
As
labour continues, various techniques may be alternated. Trying
different labor pain management techniques can be done at any point
throughout labor.
Cleansing Breath - Contractions should start
and finish with a cleansing breath. For example, just as a contraction
begins, a deep breath should be taken in through the nose, and exhaled
just as long as the inhale through the mouth. The same should be done at
the end of the contraction after rhythmic breathing has been performed.
Slow
Breathing During Early Labor - During early labor, the contractions
should be manageable. In this case, slow rhythmic breathing should be
helpful. Breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth at a
comfortable rate should do the trick.
Shallow Breathing Technique
- As labor progresses, shallow breathing may be quite helpful. These
are generally performed using the "hee-hee-hee-hoo" method. Any ratio of
"hee's" to "hoo's" can be done, such as 3:1 or 4:1. Whatever feels most
comfortable should be done. It is important to remember to take a
cleansing breath just before and after this breathing technique.
It
is important to be careful not to hyperventilate. Dizziness or losing
consciousness means that not enough oxygen is being taken in. The
breaths in should be equal to the breaths out.
Listening To Music
Music
helps to deal with pain by distraction. Studies suggest that enjoyable
and soothing music can actually delay the requirement for pain relief.
Set Up a Relaxing Atmosphere
Creating
a relaxing environment can help to deal with labor pain. Dimming the
lights, playing soft music, or lighting candles should accomplish this.
Aromatherapy can soothe the senses by using scented candles or burning
oils.
Pressure Points
Applying firm pressure to certain
parts of the body can reduce the sensation of pain. It important to
learn what and where these pressure points are prior to using them.
Certain acupressure points can naturally induce labor, which is why it
is important not to use them before the 38th week of pregnancy. Seeking
professional advice on acupressure would be a wise idea.
Birthing Aids
Sitting
upright, walking or bouncing on a birthing/exercise ball can help to
ease the pain of labor. This can sometimes be the most comfortable
position for the mother. In addition, this position can help the baby
descend into the birth canal, therefore pushing labor along.
Shower or Warm Bath
Standing
or sitting in the shower can be very soothing. The pressure of the
water stream can be pointed at certain areas of the body to act as
pressure application. Sitting in a bathtub can take the weight and
pressure off the mother's body during labor, which can be quite
relaxing. Complete submersion in the water, however, is not recommended
during early labor since the water can dilute the concentration of
oxytocin in the mother's body, which is what helps bring labor along.
Vocalizing
Some
women may choose to grunt, sing, or make any other sounds that her body
feels comfortable making. Sometimes this vocalization can help deal
with the pain associated with labor. Moaning and groaning seem to be
unavoidable when one is in deep discomfort.
Not all natural labor
pain management techniques work for everyone. During labor, a variety
of techniques may be used and alternated.
Labor pain management