Page 10 - GCMC Third Trimester

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Preparing for Pain
As the big day approaches, you may be concerned about experiencing labor pain. Pain relief in labor is available to all patients. Regardless if you choose medical or non-medical methods, you will experience some level of discomfort. There are many options for pain control that you can learn about at our “Birthing Basics Class.”
Listed here are some non-medical options that are useful in providing natural pain relief. They can be very effective during the different phases and stages of labor and birth, including prior to coming to the hospital or even after delivery. Comfort levels can be best achieved if you are prepared and practice them with your labor partner.
Aromatherapy. A safe, noninvasive, and natural treatment for both body and mind. Can be used through massage or diffused. The five best scents for calming effects and relaxation include: lavender, chamomile, lilac, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.
Breathing techniques. At the beginning of a contraction, try taking a deep, slow breath in through your nose and out through your mouth. This gives you and your baby a boost of oxygen and signals you to relax and focus. Focus on your breathing, not the pain, during contractions.
Develop a focal point. Focusing all your attention into one thing can allow distracting thoughts and images to simply pass by. You can choose anything for your focal point—a word, a sound, a photograph, a meaningful object, or simply just focusing on a spot in your hospital room.