FAQs | GLOSSARY | WEB NURSERY | STAFF | TCHAP HOME
The Providence Maternity Center is commited to making labor & delivery as comfortable and as safe as possible. This is the result of a mutal, ongoing, decision-making process based on input from you, your labor partner, your doctor or midwife, and your nurse.
Your options for pain management include:
• Breathing, Relaxation, & Massage Techniques
• Intravenous Medications (IV)
• Epidurals
Breathing, Relaxation & Massage Techniques
Breathing techniques help by calming and relaxing you as labor contractions intensify. Our childbirth classes can help you harness the power of breathing to help you through your contractions. There are many methods of patterned breathing techniques that can be very effective in labor.
Focusing on something other than contractions helps many women cope with labor. Some women prefer an internal focus. They visualize their bodies working for them, or mentally "remove" themselves to a pleasant and peaceful place. Others prefer an external focus. Concentrating on an object or a face, listening to taped music or soothing sounds of nature, or movement such as swaying, dancing or massage help many women cope.
Relaxation is one of the most important skills you can learn to reduce the pain and discomfort of labor. When under stress, most people are unaware of how tense their necks, shoulders, arm, etc., really are. The less your body has to "work" in these areas, the more progress it can make during each contraction. Although you won't have a lot of time between contractions, you should try to rest and relax as much as possible between each one.
Labor coaches or support people can provide tremendous support during all phases of labor and childbirth. Your support person can encourage you, help you with breathing and relaxation techniques, and keep you up-to-date on your progress. He or she can massage your back, apply hot packs, give your ice chips and a cool washcloth on your forehead. Your coach can also help you change positions, shower or walk around the room.
Professional labor support or doulas are available in the Anchorage area. While not employees of the hospital, they can provide their services here. For more information on doulas, click here.
Childbirth preparation classes can help prepare you and your coach for what to expect during labor.
Birth balls are available in the Labor & Delivery rooms for your comfort as well. Your nurse can help you use the balls.
Private showers are available in each room. Water is a powerful pain coping tool. Many women get a lot of pain relief in the shower.
Intravenous Medications (Return to Top)
Pain medications are available to ease the stress of labor if you want or need them. Depending on your wishes and how quickly your labor is progressing, your doctor or midwife may suggest an analgesic, which works by reducing pain and promoting relaxation between contractions. Be sure to thoroughly discuss any possible side effects of these medications on you, your labor and your baby with your caregiver.
Epidural (Return to Top)
Another option for pain management is an epidural. This involves an injection below the spinal cord, and works by blocking sensations in the abdomen, back, buttocks, perineum and legs. Epidural blocks must be given by anesthesiologists. Be sure to thoroughly discuss any possible side effects of epidurals on you, your labor, and your baby with your caregiver. There is an additional fee charged for the specialized services of an anesthesiologist. You may want to check with your insurance company to find out if any restrictions apply.
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