Over
the time that humans have been on this Earth, different methods of labour pain
relief have come and gone. Only in the last hundred years or so has it been
taken as a given that each new mother will use chemical, medical means in order
to reduce pain during birthing.
Looking
back at the whole course of history, it is actually very surprising to see how
quickly and how firmly the concept of a medically supervised birth came on.
Going back a little more than a hundred years, one would see a very different
picture at practically all births.
For
most of time as we know it, birthing was facilitated for a new mother by women
that she knew and trusted. This would usually include a midwife, who was
experienced in all matters related to the physical birthing process and who
would take the lead on the delivery.
Midwives
were highly respected figures who were trusted and consulted not only during
pregnancy and birth, but in many cases, long afterwards. They would provide
advice and guidance that would help the new mother acclimate to her role.
Nowadays,
birth is often facilitated by medical professionals that a new mother might not
know well or at all. Most methods of labour pain relief rely on medical drugs,
but there are other ways mothers can reduce pain themselves.
Let’s
look at a few:
1.
Aromatherapy
Any
sensory stimulation that provokes a sense of peace and tranquility can be
useful when trying to soothe the pain related to birthing. Aromatherapy is a
scientifically proven, yet ancient healing modality that allows the body to
react in a calm and positive way fast.
2.
Music
Many
different types of music, such as classical music, are known for their relaxing
properties. If a birthing environment is kept relaxing and calming, this can
help the mother keep her own body from becoming tense and potentially
prolonging the birthing process.
3.
Visualization
The
power of the mind to reduce pain has been documented well. It is not necessary
to be a trained monk or other expert in order to redirect the mind away from
pain, however. Simply learning to concentrate the mind on specific, peaceful
images can help.
4.
Breathing Techniques
Breathing
fully and deeply is important for a wide variety of activities. Reduced
breathing is associated with all experiences of pain and anxiety. Learning to
control breathing while under stress can greatly enhance the birth experience.
Natural birth = Laboraide
