How To Lessen Labor Pain: Managing The Difficulties Of Childbirth

Everyone knows that every labor experience during childbirth is a very painful and difficult process. Thankfully, there are some effective tips on how to lessen labor pains and deal with related struggles.

Yahoo Parenting shares some ways to reduce the pain and discomfort during this time. The first tip is about breathing properly which can help reduce stress and anxiety during labor. "At the start of each contraction, take a really deep 'cleansing' breath, like at the beginning of a yoga class." Likewise, Fit Pregnancy recommends breathing slowly, moaning and trying out quick breaths as these can also make breathing much more effective in managing the pain.

The next tip is about being relaxed and comfortable even when feeling the "extreme pain" during labor. "Imagine yourself in a happy place," the article shared. Playing relaxing music and getting a soothing massage can also help relax the mind and lessen the discomfort during labor.

Another effective way is by taking epidural medicines. These meds, which are administered through a tube in the woman's back and given throughout the childbirth delivery, can prevent pain and causes numbness in the lower half of the body. "You'll be stuck in bed since you'll be hooked up to an IV and a fetal monitor to track baby's heart rate," the article shared.

Narcotics such as Demerol, Nubain, Stadol and morphine might also be administered through injection in order to lessen labor pain. However, WebMD reported that some studies say that using narcotics during pregnancy might increase the chance of giving birth early or giving birth to a small baby. 

Other tips on how to lessen labor pain include staying in a relaxing environment during labor, choosing a competent and experienced childbirth team, moving around as much as possible, being open with your feelings and emotions, and applying warm or cool compress.