What are my pain management options for labour?
Pain management options in a hospital:
Choosing the right pain management for your labour may depend on your specific health history, so always discuss your options prenatally with your midwife or OBGYN. You may choose to use medical interventions for pain or non-medicinal alternatives. There is no right or wrong way and you may change your mind once in labour.
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An epidural is a widely held choice for most expectant parents
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Nitrous oxide (a.k.a. laughing gas) is available to take the edge off contractions
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Narcotics, such as morphine, are available for pain management
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Non-medicinal options such as hydrotherapy (tub or shower), massage/acupressure from a support person, the use of a yoga ball or peanut ball, and others can also be used as alternatives
Resource: https://www.healthyparentshealthychildren.ca/im-pregnant/labour-and-birth/pain-relief-options
Pain management options for home birth:
The biggest benefit of home birth is that you are in your own space where you may feel most comfortable. However, medical pain interventions like the epidural, morphine, and fentanyl are not available. There are non-medical options such as:
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Hydrotherapy (tub or shower), massage/acupressure from a support person, the use of a yoga ball or peanut ball, and others
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You may choose to rent a birth tub or TENS machine
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Your midwives may carry nitrous oxide, although this varies by practice
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If the intensity of your labour becomes too much, there is always the option to transfer to the hospital for medical pain management