Though delivering your child is one of life's most beautiful experiences, it can be stressful and painful. Being prepared is one of the best ways to reduce stress in the delivery room. There are also techniques to make child delivery easier on your body. Talk with your physician to identify the best childbirth options for your situation.
Epidural
An epidural is one of the most popular choices for pain relief during delivery. An epidural involves a specially trained anesthesiologist numbing a small section of your back and then inserting a needle into the membrane around your spine. He will select an appropriate form and dose of anesthesia, which will run through a catheter into the needle and then into your spinal fluid. After a few minutes the anesthesia will take effect and you will have very minimal feeling in the lower half of your body. The dosage of anesthesia may have to be adjusted throughout the various stages of labor and delivery.
Water Delivery
Many women feel delivering a child in a controlled aquatic environment reduces pain and stress during delivery, so you may want to opt for a water delivery. The buoyancy of the water helps you feel lighter and can help you move into better positions more easily and comfortably. Buoyancy also improves blood circulation and creates efficient contractions of your uterus. Contractions seem less painful in water. It is also believed that water calms stress-related hormones. When these hormones are tempered, your body will produce pain-inhibiting endorphins. Consult your physician to make sure a water birth is appropriate for your situation.
Lamaze Breathing Technique
Controlled, conscious breathing is another technique that can help ease the pain of delivery. You can learn conscious breathing through the Lamaze technique. Conscious breathing helps reduce your heart rate and anxiety, and it helps keep you and your baby well oxygenated. Conscious breathing involves taking slow, deep breaths. Breathing this way will help manage any pain of contractions. The Lamaze technique of conscious breathing encourages closing your eyes or focusing on a special object or person in the room. The Lamaze technique also incorporates walking in your hospital room, relying on supportive people in your life and avoiding unnecessary medical interventions. Your physician can refer you to Lamaze classes in your area.
Bradley Method
The Bradley Method is another classroom program that teaches couples how to have natural childbirth with reduced pain. The Bradley Method teaches techniques that help create efficient, comfortable labor and delivery experiences. This method emphasizes the importance of nutrition throughout pregnancy. Instructors also work with birthing coaches to teach them techniques to help the mother and baby get through delivery easily. The instructors educate the mother and her partner on every stage of labor, preparing everyone for the experience. Being prepared will help alleviate the stress of the unknown.
