How do you cope with the pain of childbirth? (Labor Pain) Let's talk about this!

If you're expecting a baby, one of the biggest worries you're probably having these days is, "Oh my, how much pain will it be when the baby comes? How will I cope?" This is actually a problem that many people have. So don't worry, you're not alone. The most important thing is to be well-informed about this. Then you can face this challenge well.

Why do we get this pain? (Causes of `Labor Pain`)

Okay, first let's look at why it hurts so much. Simply put, your body goes through some big changes as your baby prepares to enter the world.

• Uterine Contractions: The main reason is that the muscles in your uterus contract strongly and push the baby down. This is what we call "the pain coming". Initially, it starts mildly, but gradually this pain becomes more intense and more frequent.
• Cervix opening: The cervix needs to open for the baby to come out. That's when it starts to hurt.
• Pressure from the baby's head: As the baby descends, the baby's head presses on your birth canal and bladder, which can also cause pain.
• Vaginal stretching: The vagina stretches a lot when the baby comes out. This can also be painful.

But remember one thing, this pain is not felt the same by everyone. Some people feel it very strongly, some feel it a little less. Even for the same person, the pain they feel when having their first baby and the pain they feel when having their second baby can be different.

The hardest thing for many mothers is not just one pain, but the constant pain. Just as one pain ends and you find a moment to breathe, another comes back. Like waves in the ocean, one after another, gradually getting stronger.

How can we prepare for this in advance?

There are several ways you can prepare in advance to face this pain.

Exercise: Talk to your doctor and do some simple exercises that are right for you every day to strengthen your muscles. Also, childbirth is a very strenuous experience, so exercise will also increase your endurance. But remember, it is never a good idea to overdo it during pregnancy. Do it exactly as your doctor tells you.

Childbirth Classes: These are very helpful. They teach you various methods of pain management, breathing techniques, and relaxation techniques. These can be found in books and online. While these methods may not completely eliminate the pain, they can help you cope with it.

What are some ways to reduce pain without medication?

There are many ways to relieve pain without using medication. Some mothers use these methods alone to give birth. This is called "Natural Childbirth". Let's see what it is.

• Rhythmic or Deep Breathing: Once you have a proper breathing pattern, you can focus on it and control your breathing when pain strikes. This can help you feel calmer.
• Hypnosis: Some people say that hypnosis from a trained person can reduce sensitivity to pain.
• Yoga and Meditation: These can help relax the mind and body. They increase the ability to tolerate pain.
• Walking: Walking a little at the beginning of the pain may provide relief.
• Massage or Counterpressure: Gently massaging or pressing on painful areas, such as the back and hips, may help relieve pain.
• Applying something hot or cold: Some people find relief by applying a hot water bottle or ice pack to the painful area.
• Using a Birthing Ball: Sitting on a large exercise ball and rocking your hips back and forth can help relieve pain.
• Aromatherapy: Inhaling soothing scents like lavender can help relax the mind.
• Acupuncture or Acupressure: There is a belief that applying pressure or needles to specific points on the body can reduce pain.
• Changing Position: Changing positions, such as lying down, standing, or kneeling, can provide relief.
• Taking a Bath or Shower: Taking a hot bath or soaking in a tub of water can relax muscles and reduce pain.
• Listening to Music: Listening to your favorite, soothing songs can help distract you from the pain.
• Distraction: Doing something other than focusing on the pain, such as counting or imagining something in your mind, can also help.

Often, it is a great strength to have someone close to you, such as a husband, mother, or sister, by your side during this time. Also, there are people who have received special training called "Doulas" to help before, during, and after childbirth.

What types of pain medications are available?

In the most difficult cases of pain, painkillers can be used on the advice of doctors. Many mothers use both the above-mentioned non-drug methods and these medications. Some people initially think about not taking medication, but when the pain increases, they change their mind. There is nothing wrong with that. If the pain subsides quickly and the remaining energy can be used to push the baby out, it is a great relief.

There are different types of medications, and the way they are given varies. The most important thing is to talk to your doctor and find out exactly what the risks and benefits are of each type of medication.

Mainly used medications:

1. Medicines injected into a vein or muscle (`Analgesics`):

• These relieve the pain, but do not completely eliminate it. There is no numbness, and the muscles function normally.
• Most often, medications called "Opioids" are given this way. Because these travel throughout the body, you can sometimes experience side effects like drowsiness and nausea.

2. Inhaled Medicine:

• This is a gas called "Nitrous Oxide" (also known as "Laughing Gas") that is given this way. You can inhale it through a mask as soon as the pain starts.
• Although this does not reduce pain as much as opioids, it helps to cope with pain by reducing fear and anxiety.

3. Spinal Region Injections:

• These numb only the lower part of the body, so they have fewer side effects than other medications.
• Epidural (`Epidural` or `Epidural Block`): This is what most people think of when they think of pain medication during childbirth. This medication is given by inserting a thin tube (`Catheter`) into the membrane around your spine (`Epidural Space`) through your lower back. This tube can deliver painkillers (`Opioids`), numbing medication (`Anesthesia`), or a combination of both. This will greatly reduce the pain below the waist. The amount of medication can be increased or decreased as needed.
• Spinal (`Spinal` or `Spinal Block`): This is a single injection of medication, directly into the spinal fluid. Like an epidural, it can be given along with painkillers, numbing medication, or both. It can be done quickly and works quickly. However, the effects are short-lived. This method is often used for "Caesarean Sections".

4. Local Anesthesia:

• In this, only the area is numbed before an episiotomy is performed, or before a tear in the vagina is sewn up after the baby is born. It is sometimes also used to numb the vagina when the baby is coming out.

5. General Anesthesia:

• This involves putting you completely to sleep, either through a mask or through a drug given intravenously. You won't feel any pain. This is usually only used in emergencies during childbirth.

Talk to your doctor about this.

The most important thing is to talk carefully about pain management methods with the doctor or midwife who delivers your baby.

• What methods are there?
• How successful are they?
• When should certain medications not be used?

It's important to know all of this in advance. If you plan to use non-drug pain management methods, let your doctor and hospital staff know in advance. If possible, it's a good idea to write down your wishes clearly and create a "Birth Plan."

Remember, many mothers change their initial thoughts about pain management when they experience pain. There are good reasons for this. It's normal. Enduring pain during childbirth does not determine whether you are a good mother or not.

The most important message to take home

Having a baby is one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences in life. Pain is part of the journey. But you are not alone in facing it.

The most important thing is to be well-informed, understand your options, and talk openly with your doctor. Then you can choose the pain management method that works best for you and brings you the most relief. Don't be afraid, and face this new journey with confidence! We are all with you.

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