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There are many different ways to relieve the pain that accompanies labor and delivery of your precious newborn. Some new mothers choose to have a natural birth using only breathing and relaxing methods. Other mothers choose medicated relief such as an epidural or narcotics. It is important to choose the method that is the most comfortable for you so that you have a successful and pleasant delivery.
What are my options for a medicated birth?
A widely known and used pain relief option is a continuous anesthesia epidural, better known as the epidural. An epidural is an effective form of pain relief and can even be used during a caesarean section. First, a local anaesthetic is administered in the area where the epidural will be placed. Then, the epidural is administered by inserting a small sterile plastic tube into the patient's back. The tube is taped in place so that you can continue to move freely. Local anaesthesia is then inserted through the small tube, providing pain relief in about 10-15 minutes. Some common side affects of the epidural are shivering, a drop in blood pressure, and temporary weakness in the legs.
Another option of pain relief is the use of narcotic drugs. The most frequently used medications are Demerol, also known as meperidine or pethidine, Stadol, and Fentanyl. Narcotic drugs are usually administered by intramuscular injections about once every four hours. While the narcotic drugs do not "numb" the pain like an epidural, they do help to take the "edge" off. The most common side affects are nausea, constipation and drowsiness. It is important to note that babies born to mothers who received an injection of narcotics an hour prior to delivery are often sluggish, depressed and may take longer to release their first cry. However, the side affects tend to wear off quickly.
What if I want an unmedicated birth?
Some mothers opt for a natural birth which involves no medication. There are many popular childbirth methods, two being the Bradley Method and Lamaze Method. Both methods require patience, persistence and your partner's participation.
The Bradley Method was developed by Robert A. Bradley and was first introduced in 1970. This method teaches you how to emulate a "sleep-breathing" technique. In addition, this method integrates the concept of your partner participating in the birthing process. The Bradley Method calls for twelve units of instruction which covers areas such as achieving a healthy pregnancy, labor and delivery, good communication and the benefits of immediate contact with your newborn after delivery.
The benefits of the Bradley Method are numerous. Not only will it help you to achieve a natural childbirth, but the techniques are effective and easy to learn. A disadvantage of the Bradley Method are that many practitioners may be offended by the use of your partner as your coach and support person.
Another popular method of natural childbirth is the Lamaze Method. Lamaze, founded in 1960, promotes normal, natural and fulfilling childbearing experiences through education, advocacy and reform. Lamaze focuses on teaching focused breathing techniques as well as movement and positioning, relaxation, massage and the use of heat and cold.
A benefit of the Lamaze Method is that it teaches you, the mother, how to discover the inner wisdom that you already have for giving birth. There are many myths that accompany the Lamaze Method and its disadvantages. It is up to you to decide whether this particular method is appropriate for you and your partner.
There are many methods of pain relief available to new mothers. Which option you prefer is a personal choice that is solely your own. Rely on your instincts and your knowledge to make your decision. Whatever method you choose, remember that labor and delivery, while a painful process, is a remarkable one.
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