If you're having a baby, you might want to consider a TENS machine, complementary therapies or even massage to help you cope with pain during labour
Alternative methods may suit you better than the old established methods. Patient-controlled pain relief such as breathing techniques, visualisation, massage and use of hot water are usually taught at antenatal classes and can be practised before going into labour.
Massage
Your birth partner can massage you to help you focus on your breathing exercises during a contraction. Massage works by releasing pain-killing endorphins. Being given a lower-back massage during a contraction helps many women, although some find that they don't want to be touched at all.
It's a good idea to practise massage techniques before going into labour, so that you and your parnter are confident and relaxed during the actual event. The ideal is to achieve a slowish, rhythmical, circular motion, with warm hands and a small amount of massage oil. The most comfortable massage pressure will be learned through practice.
Complementary Therapies
Complementary therapies have been used in labour for a long time, as an alternative to stronger forms of pain relief, or as an extra form. Studies have suggested that some therapies can actually help a woman cope better with giving birth and can even shorten labour.
As these therapies are not usually part of traditional labour management, it's important to discuss any plans with the midwife and to take care to find a properly qualified practitioner who is registered with the appropriate body. Aromatherapy, , herbalism, homeopathy, hypnotherapy,reflexology acupuncture and shiatsu have all been used in labour with differing effect.
TENS
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.....a bit of a mouthful to say the least! The machine gives out electrical impulses which stimulate sensory nerves, and so block out pain impulses.
Two pairs of stick-on electrodes are placed on either side of the spine in the lower-back area. These are then connected to a portable control box that can alter the strength and frequency of the electrical pulses. There's also a 'boost' button that can be pressed during a particularly painful contraction.
TENS may not offer strong enough pain relief for a first labour, but it may be sufficient for many women in subsequent deliveries. TENS is most useful if it's practised during the final weeks of pregnancy, and used from the very start of labour. Not all hospitals provide TENS machine so it may be necessary to buy or hire one. Your midwife should be able to advise about this.
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