These can actually cause and intensify pain. Childbirth education is a great way to combat this problem, although it will not eliminate it. It will enable those participating in the birth process to have a working knowledge of what is going on. Your muscles are working, and this may cause pain which can be reduced by relaxation. Holding your breath and fighting contractions can actually hinder dilatation and labor, and be more painful by depriving your uterus of oxygen and creating tension.
Position is very important in the birth process.
Certain positions, such as lying on your back, can be harmful and painful. Changing positions and remaining mobile can help to reduce this pain. Procedures, such as amniotomy, vaginal exams and monitoring can cause pain themselves, by limiting mobility, or by creating anxiety. This pain can be dealt with by trying to encourage the baby to turn by using a variety of positions, water, etc. Sometimes unusual pain may be a sign of problems.