One thing we all know about childbirth is that it’s very painful. But there are plenty of ways to get through the pain, while still maintaining your sanity. That’s why we’re offering you some useful tips to deal with the pain during contractions.
Preparation is a good weapon for most situations in life and that certainly applies to giving birth. Especially if it is your first child. Booklets, blogs and videos can help you a lot to see how the process of childbirth takes place. This way you can mentally prepare yourself for what awaits you and the pain that comes along with it. However, keep in mind that every birth is unique and no one has experienced yours before.
A so-called childbirth course can also help, perhaps even more so for your partner. This way you can learn about it together. You can also talk to your personal midwife or obstetrician about the birth. This will give you more insight and allow them to better assess your wishes.
Once the contractions start, the following things can offer relief:
Controlled breathing
Breathing techniques are a good way to focus on something other than the pain, while simultaneously reducing the pressure on your body. By controlling your breathing, you can increase your pain threshold, making it easier to bear.
Breathing techniques and relaxing stimulates the production of endorphins, your natural anaesthesia. So try and relax as much as you can!
Experiment with postures
Although giving birth on your back is the most common way, and the first choice for many women, it doesn’t have to be the same for you. Take your time to alternate and feel what’s best for you. With a so-called birthing stool, you can push while sitting and let gravity help you. That way, your contractions will quickly become more effective. Do not hesitate to alternate and experience for yourself what the ideal posture is for you.
Source: Shutterstock.comTaking a hot bath or a shower
If you’re giving birth at home, you often have the opportunity to move more freely when the contractions start to come. A large percentage of women like to take a shower during childbirth. If you have a bath in the house, you could also take a hot bath to relax a little more. A massage can help you in the same way taking a shower or a bath does. Pushing a warm, wet cloth against the vagina during delivery, can also help you tremendously to get through the pain.
Think about the possibilities beforehand and talk about them with both the expectant father and the midwife. In this way, everyone involved will know what you need and where they stand.
Focus your attention on the baby
You’re bringing new life into the world. Focus on this during the delivery. Imagine what he or she will look like, what name you have in mind and what a bright future your child has before it. A little extra awareness helps you realise why you are doing this and gives you that extra drive to get through it.
HELP!
When you are giving birth, you are the center of attention. Feel free to ask for what you want. Something to drink to quench your thirst, A hand to hold, if the pain gets intense, or something else to make it more bearable. You’re the center of attention and you’re the one who’s working the hardest. The people around you will understand that.
Finally, remember that -even though they can be extremely painful- each contraction brings you one step closer to meeting your child!
