Comfort and Pain Management during labour. What can you do?

Giving birth hurts. That may sound obvious, but it’s important to know that this pain isn’t just an unpleasant side effect. Pain during labour has a purpose — it helps your body and mind adapt to the process of giving birth. That doesn’t mean you simply have to “get through it.” There are many ways to understand pain, to cope with it, and – if you wish – to relieve it.

Physical and emotional aspects of pain

Pain during labour is complex. It’s not only a physical sensation but also an emotional experience. How you perceive pain depends on several factors:

• Physical: During labour, the muscles of your uterus contract to open the cervix and later push your baby out. These contractions cause the pain you feel as labour progresses. The stretching of your vagina also contributes to this sensation.
• Emotional: Fear, tension, and uncertainty can intensify pain. When you feel safe and supported, your body releases endorphins — natural painkillers that can reduce the intensity of the pain.
• Mental: Your mindset influences how you experience pain. When you understand that labour pain is not a danger signal, many women find it easier to manage. Knowing what’s happening in your body and why helps you stay calm and focused.
• Control: You can compare a contraction to a wave rolling onto the shore. At first, you feel it building. Just before it peaks, the pain is strongest — and then the wave recedes, easing again. Between contractions there is rest and calm. The predictable rhythm of waves and pauses can give you a sense of control.

How does pain relief work in your body?

There are different ways to relieve pain during labour. We generally distinguish between non-medical and medical pain relief options.

Non-medical pain relief

• Breathing techniques: Conscious breathing helps you relax and stay focused, reducing tension and making the pain feel less intense.
• Movement and position: Changing positions or walking around can influence the intensity of pain. Upright positions make use of gravity, which can be helpful.
• Warmth: A warm shower or hot compress can relax your muscles and ease discomfort.
• Massage and counterpressure: Touch can distract from pain and provide comfort and support.
• Hypnobirthing and mindfulness: Techniques that help you focus and relax, allowing you to experience contractions differently.
• TENS uses mild electrical impulses delivered through electrodes on your skin to block pain signals from reaching the brain. You control the device yourself, giving you a sense of control.

Read more in the article: Natural ways to cope with contractions 

Medical pain relief

• Gas and air (Entonox): Works quickly and helps you relax. It doesn’t remove pain completely but makes it more manageable. You can control how much you inhale.
• Remifentanil: A strong painkiller given through an IV drip. It works throughout the body and may make you drowsy. You can control the dose using a button.
• Epidural anaesthesia: A very effective form of pain relief, especially for long or intense labours. It numbs the lower part of your body while you remain awake and aware.

Read more in the article: Pain relief with medication 

Summary: What helps you cope with pain?

Pain is a natural part of childbirth, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding how pain works can help you manage it better. There are many ways to find relief — from breathing techniques to medical pain options. What works best for you depends on your preferences, situation, and how you feel during labour.