6 Things That Can Make Labour More Painful

 6 Things That Can Make Labour More Painful
Labour can be a real pain. And for women who choose to be brave and go for a natural delivery without the help of pain relief, labour pains can be unbearable. However, there are times when some simple things done in a wrong way Can Make Labour More Painful

So, lets cut to the chase – Here 6 Things That Can Make Labour More Painful

1. Lying on your back
When you lie on your back, the baby’s weight presses down on your spine, and cuts off your blood supply. It also puts you in a position that is against gravity, making it harder for you to push. Instead, choose upright or forward-leaning positions, and rest on your side when you get tired.

2. Fear
What has fear got to do with it? When we’re fearful, we tense up. When we’re tense, we don’t breathe deeply, our body is tight and and we feel more pain. So, how do you combat the fear? I believe the best things a woman can do for herself (and her partner) to help prevent fear is get informed and educated with good quality information and surround herself with great support.This includes: 

• Getting independent birth education
• Reading books that give you great information
• Considering a homebirth 
• Look into Calmbirth/Hypnobirth classes 
• Join pregnancy or birth groups that are supportive of your choices

3. Shallow breathing
This automatically follows fear. Usually, when you are afraid, you breathe from your chest and not your belly. Consciously try belly breathing by taking a deep breath and holding for a second before breathing out. More the oxygen you take in, more relaxed your body is and more you are capable of fighting pain. Also, oxygen will help produce more oxytocin that will help move the labour along.

4. Being dehydrated
If you’re dehydrated, your uterus cannot contract as efficiently as it normally would. Dehydration affects every single cell in your body, so you will also feel tired sooner and will not be able to focus or concentrate. Try to sip on water throughout your labour, to keep your system working at optimal levels. It’s a good idea to keep bendy straws with you, so that your partner can hold the glass and you can drink the water easily

5. Not knowing any natural pain relieving techniques
Labour is painful, with or without pain relieving techniques. You should make it a point to learn some natural techniques that relieve pain, like breathing exercises, or visualisations. They will help relax you and give you something to focus on apart from the pain. You can also opt for a water birth, to make the birth more soothing and less painful.

6. Giving birth in a stressful environment
During your pregnancy, screen the nearest hospitals, before you decide where you want to have your baby. Talk to other people who have given birth at those hospitals and ask them about their experience. If the environment around you is stressing you out, you will tense up, and that will make your labour more painful. Ask them questions like the number of people in the birthing room, whether there were unwanted people around, whether it was chaotic and noisy or calm and peaceful, etc.