Controlling contractions

This is a local anaesthetic, given by an injection into the small of the back and gives total pain relief in nearly all cases. It has to be set up by an anaesthetist – it may take time to find him/her, so don’t wait until you’re absolutely desperate - takes between five and 30 minutes to set up and take effect, but will then last for between half an hour and three hours. Initially, you’ll be monitored in the bed, with a drip in your arm. The drip will help prevent your blood pressure from falling too low. An epidural will allow you to recharge your batteries and even sleep, if you want to. This procedure is invaluable for a long or difficult labour because your midwife can top it up as necessary.

After you’re about 8 cms dilated, the contractions are often very close together, making it very difficult for the anaesthetist to set up an epidural quickly. This is why some midwives will tell you it is ‘too late’ for an epidural.

Drawbacks

For some mothers the contractions tend to slow down. If this is the case, a Syntocinon drip has to be set up, which will accelerate the contractions, and your baby will need to be monitored at the same time. This is why it’s better to wait until you are 3 cms dilated (unless you are being induced by Syntocinon, when the epidural is given at the same time).

For more information – see our article about epidurals.

3. Entonox – ‘Gas and Air.’

This is a gas which you administer with a mask or mouthpiece. When it takes effect, two things happen:

• It will suppress pain (effectively)
• You will feel floaty and ‘high’

• Put the mask firmly over your nose and mouth at the beginning of the contraction
• Breathe deeply but gently
• Remove the mask once you are over the top of the contraction.