Pain Relief Options
TENS Machine
TENS Stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. This is a small unit consisting of four electrodes that are attached to rubber pads which are taped onto the woman’s back during labour.
When activated it emits mild electrical pulses which stimulates the body to produce pain relieving substances
What Are The Advantages?
- TENS is most effective in early labour
- effective after around thirty minutes
What Are The Disadvantages?
- only offers moderate and what can be inconsistent pain relief
Gas & Air
Gas and air is a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen and is also commonly known as Entonox. This is inhaled via a mouthpiece or mask at the start of each contraction. This gas mixture takes about 20 seconds to move from your lungs, into your blood and your brain and then take effect. Gas and air is used by at least three quarters of women during labour.
What Are The Advantages?
- can’t overdose on it
- no sleepiness
- does not harm the baby – increased oxygen probably does some good
What Are The Disadvantages?
- distinctive smell and taste which some find unpleasant
- can make you feel light headed and nauseous.
Pethidine & Diamorphine
Pethidine and Diamorphine are syringe based pain killers which are injected into the buttock. It takes about 20 minutes to kick in and is effective for between two and four hours. The normal dosage is around 50 -100mg and is used by about 40% of woman in labour. It is possible to receive more than one dose during labour.
What Are The Advantages?
- effective and long lasting pain killer
What Are The Disadvantages?
- if given close to the delivery the baby may be slower to breathe. Some babies born this way are sleepy for the first couple of days
- may experience drowsiness, nausea and vomiting
Epidural
An epidural is always given by an anaesthetist. A hollow needle is placed in the spine and a tube is inserted into the needle. The needle is removed and a strong anaesthetic is put down the tube. The anaesthetic numbs you from the waist down to your knees and takes between 10-20 minutes to kick in. This is a very effective form of pain relief but there are some side effects.
What Are The Advantages?
- very effective and long term pain killer
What Are The Disadvantages?
- can cause low blood pressure
- will need a catheter to empty bladder
Water
Being in warm water whether this be in a birthing pool or the bath seems to ease labour pain and lower stress levels.
What Are The Advantages?
- you can use gas and air in the water.
What Are The Disadvantages?
- you cannot use pethidine or have an epidural in the water.
- if there are any concerns with the babies well being you will be required to get out of the water.
Alternative Therapies
Massage & Relaxation
Massage and Relaxation techniques can help to relieve the stress and tension associated with labour. It can also relax the tense and aching muscles. Massage can be learnt at antenatal classes, done by your partner and can be combined with other pain relief options.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be used by releasing the oils either via a vapouriser or a burner. If you decide to massage them into your skin it is essential that you seek the advise of a qualified aromatherapist before you start as some oils can be harmful to your baby. Aromatherapy can be combined with other pain relief options.
Reflexology/Acupuncture/ Hypnosis
All of these therapies need to be carried out by qualified professionals. They can all bring a sense of relaxation and relief and can be used in combination with other pain relief options.
Click on this link to read our related article about Labour
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