Life Before Birth (In The Womb)

Pain Relievers In Labour

No matter how many people tell you about labour pain, you won't really understand until you experience it yourself. Using pain relievers is again a personal choice, here is a list of commonly used and offered pain relievers.

Epidural

A mixture of local anaesthetic and painkilling drugs are injected into the epidural space around the nerves attached to the spinal cord, which makes the mother feel numb from the waist down. Since an epidural may cause the mother's blood pressure to drop, it is not recommended for women with low blood pressure or a bleeding placenta. While this can provide excellent relief from pain it may also mean that you lose all sensation and feel no urge to push, So you may not get to feel your baby actually coming out. In some cases, the baby may have to be delivered by forceps or vacuum cup, or by caesarean section.

Pethidine

This drug is usually given during the first stage of labour, as an injection in the thigh or buttock. It is is similar to morphine, which may make you feel sleepy and give an unpleasant "high" sensation, but at the same time may also let you relax or even sleep in preparation for labour.

Gas and Air(Entonox)

This is the most commonly used method of pain relief and involves inhaling a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide(laughing gas) through a mouthpiece or mask. Nitrous oxide doesn't stop the pain entirely, but takes the 'edge' off the intensity of each contraction. Many women prefer nitrous oxide because it allows them direct control – you can hold the mask yourself and take deep breaths whenever you feel the need. For others it has no effect whatsoever.It can also cause nausea and vomitting.

TENS(Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation )

With this method of pain relief, four small electrodes are attached to your lower back on either side of your spine. These are linked to a battery powered unit. You control the delivery of electrical impulses by using a hand held portable machine. These electrical impulses send a signal to through your neuron system to the brain where they compete with pain impulses arising from the uterus, and help to block the pain. It is also believed to stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.