Labour pains
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At the risk of being shot down in flames, for the vast majority of us labour does hurt. Don't seek a cure; look at coping: there's a big difference. Relaxation can help get you through it. I don't expect you to drift off to sleep throughout labour (unless you've got a hefty epidural on board), but feeling well supported and in control of things can make a huge difference to the way you deal with the situation.
Contractions gradually build, reach a peak and then, thankfully, start to come down the other side. You'll then get a break before the next one. In early labour this could be 20 minutes, but at the peak of labour it may only be a minute or two. However small a break, you'll be grateful for it!
More help and advice
- What happens when you're induced?
- Embarrassing pregnancy questions answered
- Caesarean births explained
- Pain relief options during labour
By Rob Mansfield
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Where to next?
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A guide to epidurals
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A guide to gas and air
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A guide to TENS
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Advice for dads-to-be
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All you need to know about Caesareans
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Assisted deliveries
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Caesarean link to childhood asthma
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Caesareans explained
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Choosing a birthing partner
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Choosing the right birth partner
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Common pregnancy worries
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Common pregnancy worries: 3rd trimester
