Pain relief is one of the main topics of conversation when it comes to childbirth. In this article we will go through non-pharmacological pain relief and the different options available.

Non-pharmacological pain relief involves blocking or alleviating the pain from internal organs by touching sensory receptors in the skin, which then outcompete nerve impulses from, for example, the uterus. One could describe non-pharmacological pain relief as a natural alternative to other pain relief methods, and it is often the first option offered to the person in labour.

By using distraction and conscious breathing, you can focus on something other than the physical pain and so the experience of pain can be alleviated or changed to something more manageable.

Here we list some alternative pain relief options to choose from:

• Heat – for example with a heating pad, hot shower or bath

• Massage – stimulates the skin’s sensory receptors and outcompetes the pain signals from the uterus

• Yoga – also works great as a pregnancy workout, where you practice conscious breathing together with physical exercises!

• Psychological and/or social support

• Encouragement

• Relaxation exercises

• Breathing exercises

• TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) – using small electronic plates, the skin’s sensory receptors are stimulated and also block/alleviate pain signals from the uterus. You can borrow a TENS device from some physiotherapists and health centres, but they are also available at many maternity clinics. Of course, you can also buy a TENS device yourself, but feel free to ask an experienced person as there are a multitude of different models.

• Acupuncture – a method that has become increasingly popular in maternity care, both for pain relief but also to induce labour and for relaxation. Many midwives are trained to give acupuncture.

• Sterile water injection – the midwife injects sterile water into the skin, which stimulates sensory receptors for the same competing purpose as described above.

The important thing is that you find something that suits you before, during or after your delivery. Experiment until you find the pain relief that feels best!