Hospital Interventions Pt. 2: Pain Management
This is our second article in a series that explores different hospital interventions you may consider during your pregnancy and birth process. We invite you to read the first part about induction measures here.
As you work with your care providers to discuss options and create your intentions for birth, it can be helpful to apply the BRAIN strategy. Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition (checking in with body and heart), Nothing (as in “What if I do nothing?”), Decision. We recommend writing this acronym down on a note in your phone or at the front of the notebook you take to each appointment with your care provider. That way, you can ask them to help you explore each aspect of any intervention they are sharing or suggesting. Again, if you are working with a doula, they, too, can help guide you towards resources that explore the benefits and risks of interventions you may be considering.
Pain Management
Labor is an intense process for most birthing people, but we do not want anyone to suffer during labor. Pain relief options are available to support you in staying present and coping with your birthing process.
IV Pain Meds: These are also referred to as systemic analgesics. They will be given through an IV, usually in your hand or arm. They reduce pain and have a calming or sedative effect. These are usually not given in later labor, as they can make baby drowsy, which can impact their initial feeding. Learn more about the effects here.
Epidural: An epidural is pain medication that is administered through a catheter that is placed in your lower back. This medication typically causes the loss of feeling and/or numbness in the lower part of the body, so that the sensations will feel more like pressure, than pain. Birthing people who receive epidurals remain fully awake and alert during labor and birth. Find the benefits and risks of epidurals here.
Nitrous Oxide*: This is a mixture of nitrous oxide, N2O, and oxygen, which is commonly used in dentistry, and is sometimes referred to as laughing gas. You hold a mask over your mouth and nose and inhale this medication. Most birthing people will use the mask only during contractions. This medication does not cause a loss of feeling or muscle control. Generally, it will help decrease a birthing person’s anxiety during labor. Learn more about nitrous for labor here.
*Some hospitals are not offering nitrous oxide during COVID-19, so please check with your provider about whether this is an option for you.
Other
Some birthing people will set the intention to have an unmedicated birth. Whether you choose to use any of the medication options above or not, there are a range of comfort measures you can explore. These include:
Music/sounds: Make a playlist for your labor/birth or pick a few meditations you enjoy.
Birth ball or peanut ball: Most hospitals and birthing centers will have a range of balls you can use to change positions during labor.
Heating pad or rice sock: This can feel soothing if you have experiencing “back labor” or lower back pain.
Cold cloths: You might like to hold a washcloth to your forehead or wrap it around your neck as you navigate the hard work of labor and birth.
Water: If it’s available to you, baths or showers can be soothing and relaxing during your birthing experience.
Movement/mobility/positions: Changing positions regularly-- including standing, squatting, walking, and laying down- throughout labor can offer great relief and aid in your labor progress. If you’re working with a doula, they can offer ideas and help you try different positions.
Physical touch/massage: Sometimes touch can help you bring your attention away from pain and into the soothing sensation, even for just a moment. Massage can help you relax various parts of your body that may be holding tension throughout the labor.
We are Here for You
As a birthing person, we hope that you feel empowered in your decisions during the pregnancy, labor, and birth process. As you explore your options, assert your requests, and get comfortable with the intentions you set for yourself, please remember that it is always okay to ask for help and/or more information. Please reach out if we can be of support along your journey!
Find part three about vaginal exams, monitoring, and pushing here.
Author: Courtney Harris is a witness, space-holder, supporter, and caregiver for families of all types and in all stages; she has worked with youth and their families since 2008. Currently, Courtney serves as a Life Coach for Teens and a Companion for Birth and Beyond. She is passionate about honoring life’s transitions and believes that all birthing people deserve compassionate, steady, and informed support throughout their unique reproductive journeys. You can connect with Courtney here and across all social media platforms at @companioncourtney.