Pain relief in labour: Stronger options

Continuing from our previous article, let’s delve into more commonly used pain relief options for labour and childbirth. Here are a few additional methods to consider. Take the time to review this list and decide what’s best for you and your baby. Keep in mind that birth might not always go exactly as planned, and options may change during labour due to pain and its duration.

It’s vital that your birth partner familiarizes themselves with this information and understands how they can support you when the time comes. It’s also recommended to discuss these options with your midwife to understand what’s available at your chosen hospital, ensuring you can choose your preferred pain relief method.

Immersing yourself in water can help alleviate contraction pain and create a lighter feeling while reducing pressure on your back. The warmth relaxes muscles, and the water’s buoyancy eases the strain on the pelvis.

Note: Using a birthing pool for pain relief doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give birth in the water.

This method is suitable once you’re in established labour with regular, strong contractions. The water’s temperature will be maintained at a comfortable level, not exceeding 37.5°C (99.5°F), and your body temperature will be monitored. Hydrotherapy may shorten labour duration and reduce the need for stronger pain relief. Find more details here.

It offers instant relief, but its effectiveness varies. Trying it before other options is recommended. Combining it with gas and air is advisable if you find it beneficial but need additional pain management.

There is nothing to be concerned about.

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Despite its complex-sounding name, it’s safe to use during labour.

TENS is effective primarily during the early labour stages. Electrodes are affixed to your lower back and connected via wires to a battery-powered stimulator. You control the device, administering small amounts of current through the electrodes. TENS stimulates your body to release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

Use it during contractions for instant relief, especially in early labour.

There is nothing to be concerned about.

Gas and air is a mixture of gases (nitrous oxide and oxygen) called Entonox, that you breathe in whilst you are having a contraction. 

You receive a mouthpiece to control inhalation. Begin inhaling as a contraction starts; it takes 15-20 seconds to take effect. Take slow, deep breaths for best results. Entonox won’t completely numb you; you’ll still feel pain. However, it may make the pain more bearable. It’s often used in birthing pools before considering stronger pain relief.

Effectiveness sets in within 15-20 seconds. It’s crucial to take a deep breath during each contraction. Maximum efficacy is usually achieved in 40-50 seconds, ideally coinciding with the peak of contractions.

No dangerous effects for you or your baby. Some light-headedness or mild nausea may occur from inhalation. If these effects outweigh labour pain, you can discontinue use.

Opiates can help you to feel very relaxed, therefore some people who have an opiate injection have reported that they feel less ‘in control’.

This injection involves intramuscular administration of Diamorphine in your thighs or buttocks.

The injection takes seconds to administer and about 20 minutes to take effect, providing pain relief and relaxation. Effects typically last 3-4 hours, varying based on your drug resistance.

If given too close to birth, it can impact your baby’s breathing through the placenta. An additional drug will be administered to rectify this. It might induce sleepiness in your baby and affect their initial feeding. You might experience nausea, vomiting, or forgetfulness.