Birthing balls, nitrous oxide, hydrotherapy, massage, epidural, IV medications, essential oils—easing labor pains comes in many forms. But which will work best for you? Each individual experiences labor differently, so let’s explore our options to help make you as comfortable as possible during childbirth.
We asked Providence Certified Nurse Midwife Rachel Adair and Providence Obstetrics Coordinator Rena Koerner to share tips for navigating labor.
Know your options
Whether you read a book or attend a birth class, understanding your pain-relief options early helps you make informed decisions later.
“Many people go into birth wanting an epidural, possibly not realizing the epidural is an intervention that could affect your movement and ability to get baby into the optimal position,” Koerner said. “With education, it’s possible they choose something different.”
Adair suggests starting with natural pain-relief options—like hydrotherapy (submerging in water or a shower) and massage—and escalating as needed. The goal is to ease pain without limiting movement, because proper movement helps place baby in the right place for birth.
Touring the facility you plan to have your baby in is equally important. Ensure it offers your preferred pain-relief options. Ask many questions to know the place is a good fit for you and your family. If you want to avoid an unnecessary cesarean (C-section) or induction, for example, ask what percentage of patients undergo these procedures each year.
“Ask if they offer options like saline locks instead of IV lines so you don’t feel tied to the table and can get in the shower or tub,” Koerner added.
Pick the right care team
Giving birth is easier with a community around you for support. Think about the environment you want to create for delivery when picking your OB/GYN and certified nurse midwife.
“Find a physician or nurse who has knowledge about how you want to give birth. Find someone who speaks your language,” Koerner said. “Whether you want to try hypnobirthing or just want them to ask permission before touching you, find a team that will meet your specific needs.”
For emotional and non-medical support consider a doula during your pregnancy and childbirth. In 2023, Medi-Cal began reimbursing doula costs up to $544.28 during labor and providing additional coverage for appointments.
Prepare your body for labor
Aspects of modern living, like sitting for long periods on couches or in cars, often puts the pelvis in a suboptimal position, which can make labor more difficult and painful depending on the baby's position.
“We are designed for squatting and standing, so one of the first things I do to optimize the fetal position is encourage pointing the belly button down,” Adair said.
“My clients and I tend to focus on things that help ensure the baby is in a good position for labor,” agreed Koerner.
Yoga positions like “cat-cow” and “puppy pose,” as well as swimming, can help coax baby to the prime position. A focus on flexibility and gentle aerobic activities (rather than strength) may also help ease labor.
“Some of the women I’ve seen who struggle the most through labor were in CrossFit. Those are high-intensity workouts, and everything gets so tight and toned. Walking and mindful movement seem to bring a better result when preparing the body for labor,” Koerner said.
Continue to work with your care team to ensure you and your baby are healthy, and to make the best decisions at all stages of your pregnancy. Learn more about our maternity services or make an appointment with a member of our care team.
