Managing pain during labor can be different for every mom. Many try to control the pain by channeling their energy and focusing their minds on something else. Two common childbirth approaches are:
-- The Lamaze technique: This teaches that birth is a normal, natural, and healthy process. But it is not against using pain medicines and encourages women to make decisions based on what’s right for them.
** The Bradley method: This emphasizes a natural approach to birth and the active participation of a birth coach. Medicines are avoided unless absolutely needed. It also focuses on good nutrition and exercise during pregnancy and relaxation and deep-breathing techniques to cope with labor. The classes do prepare parents for unexpected complications or situations, like emergency C-sections.
Other natural ways to handle pain during labor include:
* hypnosis (also called "hypnobirthing")
* yoga
* meditation
* walking
* massage or counterpressure
- changing position (walking around, showering, rocking, or leaning on birthing balls)
* taking a bath or shower
* immersion in warm water or a jacuzzi
* distractions via activities to take the focus off the pain
* listening to soothing music
* visual imagery
How can I give birth naturally?
