Some patients prefer to use non-medicated methods of pain management during some or all of their labor. Some of these techniques include: acupuncture, acupressure, massage, hypnosis, breathing techniques (Lamaze), and water immersion.

IV (intravenous) pain medications are given through an IV (small plastic tube) that is placed in a vein in your arm. There are a variety of different IV pain medications your doctor can prescribe during labor.

Inhaled anesthetic gases were one of the first methods of pain relief ever used during childbirth. Queen Victoria used Chloroform in childbirth in 1853! Although Chloroform is no longer used, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available on some labor units for women during vaginal delivery.

Nerve blocks such as epidurals and spinals are the most commonly used pain relief options for women in labor.  Medicine can be given in the lower part of the back to numb the nerves that are causing contraction pain.  These techniques allow you to be awake and comfortable for the birth of your baby.

An anesthesiologist will be with you during your surgery to keep you safe and comfortable. To maintain  your comfort during surgery, spinal and epidural techniques allow you to be awake and alert for the birth of your baby. Anesthesiologists also provide post-operative pain relief which help you become mobile faster to breastfeed and care for your baby.