The Truth about Pain in Childbirth

Woman Giving Birth

Childbirth is an intense experience, and substituting the word contraction for the word pain does not hide the fact that it can hurt. But it should be a good pain, one closely connected to pleasure. Allow yourself to experience it rather than resist it. Be willing to turn entirely inward and concentrate on your body. Acknowledge the sensations of labor for what they are - the way being paved for your baby to emerge. The sensations are only frightening if you don't understand them. Ride along with the emotions of labor as well: happy and excited when it begins, serious and intent on the work as it continues.

Find out what childbirth was like for other women. Talk with the ones who have positive, constructive things to say. Ask them what helped the most. One seasoned mother said that having her feet rubbed the whole time got her through it. Another mother said she needed to know it was okay to make low, throaty sounds and moans during transition on stage of childbirth. Sound silly isn't it.

There is a point in many labors where the birthing mother experiences self-doubt or become very grouchy. Feelings like this often come when contractions are most intense, with little time to rest in between. This happens near the end of the first stage of labor, shortly before it is time to actively push the baby out. This is not the time to call for pain reliever but to know that moments of trial and of doubt are all part of experience. You may be considering asking for pain relief. Instead, hang on and realize that your baby will soon be in your arms.

Natural childbirth does not mean that you passively suffer through pain, but that you find ways to cope and to correct problems. Your attending physician will teach you ways of coping of coping up with and preventing pain during the stage of labor. Changing positions, getting into a tub of water, standing in a shower, having your back rubbed, being lovingly supported and comforted by your husband. All these comforting measures can help your body do its job more efficiently. The more you can work with your body, instead of fighting it, the easier it is for your baby to be born.

Remember, if the pain becomes unmanageable, that is your signal to check your progress. After twenty minutes or so, if the pain continues, then there is always the option of medical pain relief. Ask yourself, "I am coping or I am suffering?" Pain can be letting you know there is a problem; sometimes the solution is as simple as a change of position. But if the problem cannot be corrected, medical or surgical intervention may be necessary.