CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

How to Make Labor Hurt Less

Whether you go all natural or get drugs, there are ways to relieve pain.
save article
profile picture of The Bump Editors
Updated March 2, 2017
Hero Image
Image: Shutterstock

Breathing

What it is: To deal with all the pain, it’s using the same breathing techniques that chill you out whenever you’re stressed or anxious.

How it’s done: At the start of each contraction, take a really deep “cleansing” breath, like at the beginning of a yoga class.

You should know: Get more guidance and plenty of practice by taking a childbirth class. Ask your OB for suggestions.

Relaxation Techniques

What it is: Operating under the idea that pain is a state of mind, you’ll try to get more comfortable and distract yourself.

How it’s done: Imagine yourself in a happy place. Play calming songs, get a massage from your partner—stuff like that.

You should know: It’s hard to know exactly what’s going to work once you get there, so have a whole bag of tricks to try.

Epidural

What it is: Usually a combo of meds that block your brain from feeling pain and (mostly) numb your lower half.

How it’s done: It’s given throughout labor and delivery through a tube inserted into your back.

You should know: You’ll be stuck in bed, since you’ll be hooked up to an IV and a fetal monitor to track baby’s heart rate.

Systemic medication

What it is: Medications like morphine, Demerol, Stadol and Nubain, which are all narcotics.

How it’s done: Systemic meds are injected into the bloodstream or a muscle and affect the entire body.

You should know: They only really take the edge off. You may get nauseated, and baby can be exposed to them.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

pregnant woman looking in bathroom mirror
Should You Groom for the Delivery Room?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
doctor exam for pregnant woman bishop score
What Does Your Bishop Score Mean for Labor and Delivery?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman lying in hospital bed while in labor
What to Know About Amniotomy and the Artificial Rupture of Membranes
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman getting ready to go into labor
4 Must-Know Strategies for an Easier Labor and Delivery
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sitting in hospital bed while in labor
Baby Is Coming: What to Know About Cervix Dilation
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
What You Need to Know About Preterm Labor
What You Need to Know About Preterm Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
mom kissing newborn baby after giving birth
8 Surprising Things That Happen After Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
still from the movie baby mama, tina fey and amy poehler attending a baby class
Your Comprehensive Guide to Childbirth Classes
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
5 Medication Options for Pain Relief During Labor
5 Medication Options for Pain Relief During Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
Postpartum Lochia: What to Expect With Normal Bleeding After Birth
Postpartum Lochia: What to Expect With Normal Bleeding After Birth
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
water splash and bubbles
What to Know About Your Water Breaking During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
10 slides
10 Things You Have to Do Before You Go Into Labor
10 Things You Have to Do Before You Go Into Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sleeping in chair next to baby crib at home
How $65 Million Will Help Address America's Maternal Health Crisis
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
mother holding newborn baby in hospital bed shortly after birth
What Does Baby’s Apgar Score Mean?
By Colleen De Bellefonds
unrecognizable pregnant woman talking to doctor
What to Know About Group B Strep in Pregnancy
By Dani Wolfe
woman in labor ready to give birth
7 Surprising Things That Happen During Labor and Delivery
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
phone laying on bed with headphones attached
Best Songs for Labor and Delivery
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
jason kelce eating and sleeping while wife kylie is in labor
NFL Star Jason Kelce's Funny Labor Support Fails Go Viral on TikTok
By Wyndi Kappes
couple packing hospital bag for birth
Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack in Hospital Bag
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
man helping woman through labor and delivery
9 Ways to Support Your Birthing Partner During Labor and Delivery
By Blair Sharp
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List