If you are due to give birth in Peterborough or the surrounding areas you might be researching what pain relief options are available to you

The good news is gas and air is being offered at Peterborough again! Hinchingbrooke labour ward also offers gas and air. Some Newborn photography clients I have met recently have opted to transfer their care to Hinchingbrooke hospital in order to have gas and air as a pain relief option. But now that it is back at Peterborough Hospital you won’t need to!

In this blog post we will be exploring the different alternatives that are available to you

I think it is fair to say, no matter what your pain threshold hold, labour is a painful experience to varying degrees.

Researching all of the options for pain relief will help you to make a fully informed and confident decision on the right choice for you when the time comes. 

It is always good to have a plan B so that you aren’t making rushed decisions in the moment. Write all of your birthing wishes, including your plan B, in your birth plan and make sure your midwife is aware of your preferences.

First we will look at the non medical options

These options are largely without risk and can be used by most people.

Although, please do your own in depth research for any techniques you are considering

 Breathing techniques:

don’t let this simple, cliche technique put you off! It is extraordinary the psychical and psychological effects deep, slow and focused breathing can have on our body and mind.

It can bring a great deal of relaxation and help you manage your pain during contractions.

Practise breathing techniques whilst you are still pregnant to ensure they are the most effective when you need them during labour

Hyno birthing:

Hypnobirthing combines deep relaxation and breathing techniques, visualisation, and self-hypnosis to help you remain calm and reduce pain during labour.

Hypnobirthing can help you to have positive and peaceful mindset going into labour and throughout 

Water therapy:

Taking a warm bath or using a birthing pool can help you relax and ease the pain of contractions.

The buoyancy of water can also help you move more easily and find the most comfortable positions for you when birthing your baby.

Peterborough labour ward and Hinchingbrooke labour ward each have one birthing pool. Gas and air is not available in the birthing pool at either hospital

Massage technique:

 During labour your birthing partner or midwife can massage your lower back, for example, or perform hip squeezes to help reduce the pain during contractions. This technique also releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers.

Medical pain relief options

Here is a brief description of some of the most used medical pain relief options. Do your own research to discover the side effects for each option

Gas and air:

Arguably the most popular go-to pain relief option. It is a mixture of gases that you breath in through a mouth piece during your contraction to relieve some of the pain. It is controlled by you and the side effects wear off quickly meaning that you are in control and can concentrate on your breathing. Some women do find it can cause dizziness, drowsiness and nausea. However, any side effects would wear off quickly

T.E.N.S machine:

a small portable device. The box is attached to wires that are stuck to the body with sticky pads.

It works by sends small electrical pulses through the skin. These electrical pulses then block the pain signals being sent to the brain. Very clever! 

Pethidine injection

Administered to the thigh or buttock this injection can help you relax within 20 minutes and can last 2-4 hours. This option cannot be administered too close to delivery

Epidural

This is particular helpful if you are having a very long and painful birth. An epidural provides complete pain relief.

This can only be administered by a anaesthetist so one has to be available.  

Your contractions and the baby’s heart rate will need to be continuously monitored for this method of pain relief. 

Remifentanil

This a pain relief that is administered via the vein that you can control yourself by pushing a button. It works quickly but can make you feel sick/dizzy. 

–Remember to research and discuss your options with your healthcare provider and consider your personal preferences, medical history, and any potential risks or contraindications before making a decision.

Ultimately, your comfort and well-being during labor are of utmost importance, so choose the option that feels right for you.

Are there any alternative pain relief options that I have missed out? Did you use any techniques not listed that worked for you? Please do share in the comments!

Emma xx

| Maternity and Newborn Photography Specialist based in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, UK |you