Is labor faster without an epidural?

Epidural vs. natural birth methods: What’s the difference-

What is a natural birth?

To be clear, there’s no such thing as an “unnatural birth”. Everyone’s birth experience will be unique. So, when people refer to a “natural birth”, they’re often referring specifically to giving birth with the use of little-to-no pain medication.

Natural birth can also mean taking a wellness-based approach to the childbirth process. Generally, this means that labor starts on its own, rather than inducing it, and letting the process run its course with minimal intervention. Simply put, natural birth is about giving birth at your body’s pace.

What is an epidural?

An epidural – or an epidural block as it’s sometimes called – is an injection of anesthesia in your lower back that numbs your nerves from the waist down. The anesthetic is usually delivered in a continuous flow or a repeatable dose, in order to keep your comfort consistent throughout labor. Epidurals are one of the most common pain medications used during childbirth.

The pros and cons of natural births

Benefits of natural birth

Since natural childbirth typically focuses on minimizing medication and intervention, one of the benefits is the potential for less side effects for you and your baby.

Other benefits of natural birth can include:

* A strong feeling of control, empowerment and accomplishment – There’s no right or wrong way to give birth, and some individuals take personal satisfaction in handling their pain head-on. Medication dulls or numbs some sensations, so going without may make you feel more connected to the experience overall.

* The ability to change birthing positions – Since pain medications help dull painful sensations, many people find they’re able to move around more freely when they avoid them. For example, if a certain position is uncomfortable, you’ll know it and be able to adjust until you find a better one. Changing positions can also help your labor progress by helping the baby move into a good position for your pelvis.

* The potential for a quicker labor, delivery and recovery – For some people, a natural birth may go more quickly. While it depends on several different factors, like how relaxed you may be, in some cases medications can interfere with contractions and prolong labor.