Each woman’s labor is unique. The amount of pain you feel will differ from that felt by other women in labor. Pain experienced during labor may depend on several factors including your level of pain tolerance, the strength of the uterine contractions and the size and position of the baby.

Types of pain Management:

Non-medication pain management (Natural Childbirth) - Some women prefer natural methods to help control their labor pain. These include massage, imagery, warm showers, distraction, breathing and relaxation techniques. Some of these techniques can be learned in childbirth classes.

Medication management (I.V. Analgesics) - An injection of pain medication can be given into a vein (I.V.). Less frequently into a muscle (I.M.). These are usually prescribed by your obstetrician or nurse midwife. Opioid medications are commonly used. There are several available drugs which Obstetricians generally consider safe for use during labor. Examples include Nubain Fentanyl and Demerol (Meperidine). Although they may not take the pain away completely, they can reduce pain significantly. Narcotics can help you relax between contractions. Common side effects include drowsiness and nausea. These are usually minor.

Narcotics (Opioids) given right before delivery can make the baby sleepy and slow its breathing. These can usually be reversed with oxygen and /or medication.

Pudendal Block (Local block) - To relieve pain associated with the second stage of labor (pushing), an injection called a pudendal block can be given through the vaginal wall and into the pudendal nerve in the pelvis, numbing the area between the vagina and anus (perineum). However, these blocks do not relieve the pain of contractions. It can be given shortly before delivery, and does not affect the baby.

Regional techniques

• Epidural analgesia - Most effective method of pain relief during labor.

• Combined Spinal Epidural technique (CSE) - Same as epidural, but faster onset.