Pain Relief During Labor

We encourage all couples to attend a childbirth class. The classes will serve every laboring couple, even though they may elect another type of anesthetic. Every person has a different tolerance to pain and you should not feel a sense of failure if you request, or we suggest, medication for pain relief.

Anesthesia and Pain Relief
Each expectant mother in labor will require different amounts of medication depending on her special situation. Ideally, all expectant mothers and their labor coaches will have some childbirth education through classes, books, or videos. Knowing what to expect during labor and delivery reduces fear and anxiety and makes it easier to cope with pain. Breathing and relaxation techniques help many women avoid or decrease the need for medication. This will serve to educate you about the delivery process and take away fears. This is not to say that every couple should "go natural" because not all couples should.

Support from a partner or coach not only enhances the birth experience, but also helps reduce the need for medication. Each woman's perception and experience of labor pain is unique. Some women plan and prepare for an unmedicated birth and are successful in their goal. Others want pain relief as soon as it is safe. Fatigue, anxiety, or medical considerations may make pain medication or anesthesia necessary or desirable.

Usually, clinicians can use these drugs with minimal risk to the baby. There also may be times when medication cannot be used safely. You really can't know until labor whether you'll want pain relief or what type is best for you. However, you should understand the options in advance. Discuss your expectations with your clinician and labor coach, but prepare to be flexible.

Source: Patient education material from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology was used as a source of information to develop the content for this topic.

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