How you experience the intensity or pain during labor varies from woman to woman. Additionally, no two labors are the same, and it can be difficult to imagine how you will experience it. However, there are choices you can make in advance.
We know that many factors influence pain perception. For example, if you feel supported by those around you, the pain experience is often less intense. The following video was recorded in Rotterdam and explains the differences between various pain relief methods in a clear way.
Important Information About Medical Indications and Pain Relief
In non-emergency medical situations, there may be times when no space is available at Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, in about 5-10% of cases. In such cases, you will be referred to another hospital, such as Franciscus Gasthuis or Ikazia Hospital. This is usually done using your own transportation.
Examples of non-emergency medical indications:
- Request for an epidural (epidural anesthesia)
- Cervical dilation that is not progressing or progressing insufficiently
- The pushing stage that is not progressing or progressing insufficiently
- Pain Relief and Preparation for Labor
Proper preparation can help you enter labor feeling relaxed and confident. Consider taking a childbirth class, attending information evenings, or reading brochures. Especially for a first pregnancy, we recommend starting this early.
In a childbirth class, you will learn relaxation exercises and breathing techniques that can help you during contractions. By consciously breathing, your body produces endorphins, which naturally relieve pain.
Pain Relief Without Medication
Heat: A warm shower or bath relaxes the muscles and can reduce pain. Many women find that they feel less need for additional pain relief because of this.
Changing Positions: Regularly changing positions can ease the pain and help progress labor.
Birth TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): This device delivers small electrical impulses that can relieve pain, especially in the early stages of labor.
Pain Relief With Medication
Nitrous Oxide (Sophia Birth Center): Safe for both mother and child, without transmission to the gynecologist. Nitrous oxide works within 10 minutes and helps you relax, while still staying active in labor.
Epidural (Epidural Anesthesia): Available in medical delivery rooms under the supervision of a gynecologist. The epidural offers strong pain relief but also comes with additional monitoring and possible risks.
Remifentanil (Franciscus Gasthuis): A morphine-like medication administered through an IV. You can control the dosage yourself with a push button.
For more information on pain relief or medical indications, we invite you to consult our brochures or specific pages on this topic. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to contact us!
