Consider the options

There are many ways to address labor pain without medications. These techniques won't stop the pain of contractions, but they might help you feel more relaxed and better able to cope with labor pain. Options include:

• Relaxation exercises
• Breathing techniques
• Walking, moving or changing position
• Continuous labor support, either from a professional labor assistant (doula) or a loved one
• Touch or massage
• Applying ice packs or heat to your back or other body parts
• Hypnosis
• Acupuncture and acupressure
• Listening to music
• Water immersion

As labor progresses — and contractions become stronger and more frequent — some women choose medication. Options include:

• A regional pain blocking procedure that can be used during labor (epidural block)
• A pain blocking procedure that's typically used shortly before delivery (spinal block)
• A local anesthetic used shortly before delivery to block pain between the vagina and anus (pudendal block)
• An inhalation analgesia that can be used during labor, such as nitrous oxide
• Opioids