Pain relief tips during natural births
There is no doubt that the natural way of birth is the best for you as well as for your baby. There is a lot of information available on how you can manage the pain that comes with giving birth naturally. Going through all of it can be cumbersome and leave you spinning in terms of what really to do. Here are some practical pain relief tips that can help when you actually go into labor.
Do not rush off to the hospital as soon as the pains begin. Once you are sure you are having contractions stay home for as long as you can. Being home will allow you to relax and be comfortable. You may lie down or walk about as you feel. Once your contractions are separated by two to three minutes, head for the hospital or birthing centre. If you are on your second delivery, head there a little earlier, when your contractions are five minutes apart.
The traditional way of lying on your back during a delivery is the most painful. The position slows down labor and sometimes cuts blood flow to your child. If you can, move around. Walk slowly, sway from side to side, bounce around on a birth ball or even trying rocking forwards and backwards when on all fours. If the pain is unbearable and you have to lie down, flip to your side or squat down with some support.
The pain will naturally cause you to cry out in pain. While this can give you temporary relief, it can also have negative effects. Screaming tightens the muscle in your body, increasing your pain quotient. If you have to let out steam, moan slowly with an open mouth. Relaxing your facial muscles will automatically help relax your back and buttock muscles.
Breathing well is vital when you are in labor. Concentrate on breathing slowly and deeply. Inhaling long and hard will pacify those frayed nerves. Breathe through the duration of a contraction. A direct result of breathing well is relaxing. Try and calm all your muscles and keep them flexed. Use your partner or a doula for support. Relaxation techniques are best practiced when you are pregnant.
Have the person you trust the most with you. It can be just about anyone in the family who is a strong support for you. A professional doula along with your chosen partner is the best set of people to have. And last but not the least, as a woman you should have confidence in yourself. Women have been naturally made strong to handle child birth and you have what it takes.
