It’s a big question: what to do if you have a low pain tolerance… and you want a natural birth? Many moms wonder, “Can I handle the pain of labor?”
The good news is that, even with a low pain tolerance, you can absolutely have a natural birth. Here’s how:
1. Educate Yourself
Prepared childbirth classes are a must! Your course provides essential knowledge about the stages of labor, what to expect, and practical skills to manage pain. You’ll learn various techniques, like breathing exercises, position changes, and using a birth ball. Your partner will also learn how to support you effectively. This intellectual preparation equips you with a toolbox full of strategies to use during labor.
Looking for a natural childbirth course that’s evidence-based AND focused on honoring your intution and power during your birthing time?
Click here for details on MamaBaby Birthing, my complete online birthing course. Used by thousands of birthing families, you’ll be completely prepared for a beautiful, safe, and confident birth experience.
2. Mental Preparation
Pregnancy and birth are significant transitions in your life. Spend some time considering the intensity of labor and how you’ll handle it emotionally (hint: your birthing classes will help!). Mental and emotional readiness greatly influence your birthing time, helping you stay calm and focused during labor.
3. Create a Comforting Environment
A safe and relaxing environment can significantly reduce pain. Low lights, your favorite music, and familiar surroundings stimulate your body to produce oxytocin and beta-endorphins, which help labor progress smoothly and provide natural pain relief.
4. Use Comfort Measures
Simple strategies like waiting until labor is well established before heading to the hospital can prevent unnecessary interventions that might increase pain. At home, you’re in a familiar, safe environment, allowing your labor to progress naturally. This also allows your body’s natural pain relief to build, like I noted above.
5. Practice with an Ice Cube
Pam England, author of Birthing from Within, suggests practicing your pain management skills with an ice cube. Put an ice cube on your wrist or behind your ear and practice your breathing and relaxation techniques. This really works to help you “practice” managing discomfort!
(NOTE: Want a Perfect Birth Plan Template? Use this template and step-by-step videos to write a birth plan that gets your birth team on your side for a beautiful birth experience! Get the birth plan kit here.)
6. Understand the Role of Hormones
Oxytocin and beta-endorphins play significant roles in labor. They not only keep labor moving but also provide natural pain relief. As I noted above, creating a safe, comfortable environment helps your body produce these hormones effectively.
Note that getting synthetic oxytocin (like Pitocin or Syntocinon) short-circuits your body’s natural pain relief because it shuts down natural oxytocin production. Unlike your own oxytocin, Pitocin does not cross the blood-brain barrier. It provides NO pain relief and causes unnaturally long, strong contractions.
7. Recognize Transition as a Good Sign
During transition, contractions are most intense but also mean that you’re close to meeting your baby. Remember, if you feel like “I can’t do this anymore” you’re probably in transition – and you’ll be pushing your baby out soon!
8. Remember You’re Not Alone
Labor is a team sport for you and your baby. Understanding that your body and your baby are working together is encouraging!
Even if you have a low pain tolerance, with the right preparation and support, you can have a natural birth. It’s all about discovering knowledge, practicing techniques, and creating a supportive environment.
Ready to take the next step?
Join my comprehensive online natural birth course, MamaBaby Birthing, where you’ll get in-depth guidance, practical tools, and personalized support to prepare for a beautiful, empowering birth. Check out MamaBaby Birthing to learn more and start your journey towards a natural birth today.
You’ve got this, Mama! Let’s make your birthing experience a positive and memorable one.
Want personal support to stay healthy and low-risk through your pregnancy? Longing for authentic guidance to make your sacred birth dream a reality?
Click to book a pregnancy and birth visioning call with me. We’ll talk about your hopes and dreams and explore if my pregnancy coaching program is a good fit for you.
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