Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
These are often taught in ante-natal classes and can be used alongside your chosen method of pain relief.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
A TENS machine is available for use in labour and a leaflet with detailed information on the machine is also available on request.
Equanox / Nitrous Oxide (Gas & Air)
This can be self-administered through a mouthpiece as a continuous flow.
The effect only lasts for a short period, so it needs to be inhaled deeply with each contraction.
Gas and air can be used in conjunction with other forms of pain relief and the oxygen content also has beneficial effects for your baby.
Diamorphine
Diamorphine is a strong pain relief medication which is normally injected into the leg or buttock. It takes 15 – 20 minutes to start working and helps by
relaxing your muscles, making it easier to cope with contractions. It is given with an anti‑sickness medicine because it can make some women feel sick.
A repeat dose can be given after 4–6 hours during labour.
Diamorphine can also make your baby sleepy or drowsy during labour and after birth.
Epidural
An epidural is an aesthetic injection in your back to provide pain relief during labour. It is administered by an anaesthetist who inserts a fine plastic tube called an epidural catheter into your back (spine) near the nerves that carry pain messages to your brain. The needle is then removed, leaving just the catheter in your spine which can be used to top up your pain relief medicines manually or using an automatic pump.
When it works well, it can provide complete pain relief.
If you receive an epidural you will need to stay in bed because your legs may feel heavy. It may also cause your blood pressure to drop, so you will be given an IV infusion during labour and your blood pressure will be checked more often.
In addition, there is an increased chance of needing a ventouse, forceps or Caesarean birth because many women have reduced sensation about when and where to push. You must also stay in hospital for 24 hours after you have given birth.
Your baby will be closely monitored throughout labour and the epidural can make them more sleepy or drowsy during labour and after birth.
General Anaesthetic
This type of anaesthetic is used for emergency Caesarean sections, when there is not enough time to give an epidural and the baby needs to be delivered as quickly as possible.
