Understanding and coping with pain during labour
The pain of labour is unique and serves a purpose. It signals the start of the opening process that will lead to the birth of your baby. This process happens gradually. A rhythm develops and the intensity of the pain steadily increases.
The pain is stronger during contractions, while the period between contractions gives you time to recover. For some people the start of labour is hardest; for others the most difficult moment is when it is time to push.
There are various things that can help cope with childbirth pain without using medication. Knowing what they are can help you better understand the pain and prepare in advance.
Creating a supportive environment
During your delivery, you need an environment where you feel calm, safe and confident. This helps you to secrete the hormones needed for labour. To create a supportive environment, you can do things like dimming the lights and reducing ambient noise as much as possible (e.g. turning down the monitors, asking people to whisper).
Having someone with you during childbirth
During childbirth, you need the support of someone you know and trust. This can be the baby’s father or co-parent, your partner, a member of your family, a friend, or a doula. Having someone with you will help you feel better, and reassure and encourage you during labour.
You may also seek the assistance of a doula (see Doulas).
Providing support during childbirth
You don’t have to be an expert to provide support during childbirth. You can:
- Adopt a positive and caring attitude
- Provide encouragement as best you can
- Ask the person what would make them feel better
- Continue if your words or actions seem helpful
- Try different things; there’s no “recipe” that’s guaranteed to works every time.
Childbirth is an important moment for you, too. It brings a whole range of emotions. You may feel helpless in the face of the pain or fears of the person you support. But remember, your presence makes a big difference.