How to Get Through Labor Without Drugs

Pursuing Natural Childbirth

If you think there are risks that come with taking an epidural during labor, you are correct. In fact, up to 23% of women who have an epidural during labor will experience some complications. Epidural side effects range from vomiting, fever, shaking and headaches, to low blood pressure, fetal distress, vacuum extraction, forceps delivery, and emergency C-section. If you are pregnant and desire to give birth to your baby without using an epidural, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

1. Establish your motivation. If you plan to have a natural childbirth, you first need to have a strong motivation for doing so. If you go into labor thinking, "I prefer a natural childbirth, I'm sure labor isn't that bad." You'll be begging for an epidural long before transition starts. You need to have sound, convincing reasons for attempting delivery without drugs. If you don't, strong and painful contractions will dissolve your resolve.

The best way to establish your motivation is through education. Read up on pain medications during labor and all of the possible side effects. For example, did you know that women who receive an epidural at 2 centimeters have a 50% chance of needing a C-section? Learning about the causes and outcomes of fetal distress will go a long way in helping you establish why you feel a natural childbirth is important. Do you plan to breastfeed? Research the impact that drugs during labor can have on your breastfeeding relationship.

2. Take a childbirth class. It is easy to find labor grueling and unbearable when you don't understand how far along you are or if there is any end in site. Gone are the days when women need to scream all the way through labor. You have at your disposal many resources that will enlighten you on the stages of labor as well as what you can expect during each one. Learn terms such as "dilation" and "effaced," as these key words will help you understand your labor. Attend a childbirth class and talk to other women who have given birth so you can learn from their stories.