Pain during labour
Pain during labour is normal, but how you deal with it differs from person to person. Some women experience the pain as severe, others as intense but manageable. Being well informed and knowing what your options are helps you start the birth with confidence.
Do you have questions about pain during the birth or the different options for pain relief? Feel free to contact us. You can reach us by phone on weekdays between 08:30 and 12:30 on 020-775 99 27. You can also send us an email at verloskundigen@pregnanta.nl, and we will contact you as soon as possible.
How does labour pain arise?
During the birth your body goes into action: the womb contracts to guide your baby out. The pressure this puts on your cervix, pelvis and back causes pain. Tension on muscles and tissues around the vagina and perineum also plays a role. The pain has a purpose: it guides you through the process of birth.
Your body helps you by producing natural painkillers such as endorphins. These are substances made by your own body that help you tolerate the pain better.
What influences how you experience pain?
Labour pain is not only physical. How you experience the pain also depends on your mental state, your surroundings, the support you get and your expectations. Women who feel safe, are well supported and know what is happening in their body can often cope with the pain better.
Factors that have an influence:
- Confidence in your body and your birth
- Calm, familiar surroundings
- Attention and support from your partner or care provider
- Previous experiences with pain or giving birth
- Explanation of what happens during the birth
Ways to relieve pain
Without medication:
Freedom of movement
Staying active helps give your body space and release tension. Change position, use a birthing ball, lean on a partner or go on your hands and knees.
Warmth
A warm shower or bath can be relaxing. Warmth on your lower back helps with back labour.
Breathing and relaxation
Calm breathing supports the relaxation of your muscles and helps you stay focused. Many women benefit from breathing exercises or relaxation techniques from, for example, an antenatal class.
TENS
This small device gives light electrical pulses via electrodes on your lower back. The pulses distract attention from the pain and stimulate the production of endorphins.
Support from a trusted person
A partner, doula or friend who reassures you helps you emotionally and practically.
Without medication:
Freedom of movement
Staying active helps give your body space and release tension. Change position, use a birthing ball, lean on a partner or go on your hands and knees.
Warmth
A warm shower or bath can be relaxing. Warmth on your lower back helps with back labour.
Breathing and relaxation
Calm breathing supports the relaxation of your muscles and helps you stay focused. Many women benefit from breathing exercises or relaxation techniques from, for example, an antenatal class.
TENS
This small device gives light electrical pulses via electrodes on your lower back. The pulses distract attention from the pain and stimulate the production of endorphins.
Support from a trusted person
A partner, doula or friend who reassures you helps you emotionally and practically.
After the birth: postnatal discomforts
After the birth you may experience various postnatal discomforts. These are complaints that are part of your body’s recovery and are usually temporary. You may suffer from blood loss, afterpains, stitches or muscle pain. Your breasts may also be painful or tense, especially when milk production gets going. Tiredness, both physical and mental, is also a common discomfort. These complaints are normal, but can be unpleasant. Fortunately, your maternity care assistant guides you through this period and helps you recover.
Preparation gives confidence
Talk to your midwife about your wishes, options and any concerns. Together you can look at what suits you, and make a plan that fits your situation. That way you start the birth well prepared, with confidence in your body and your choices.