It numbs the nerves which carry the feelings of pain from the birth canal to the brain. An epidural is given by an anaesthetist. While you lie on your side, anaesthetic is injected into the space between the bones in your spine through a very thin tube. If you don't want any of these kinds of pain relief, you are free to say so. And if you decide you do want pain relief, ask for it as soon as you feel you need it, without waiting for it to be offered.
Some mothers choose acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy, hypnosis, massage and reflexology.
What you can do for yourself Fear makes pain worse and everyone feels frightened of what they don't understand or can't control. So learning about labour from antenatal classes, from your doctor or midwife, and from books is important. Learning to relax helps you to remain calmer and birth classes can teach ways of breathing that may help with contractions. Your position can also make a difference. Some women like to kneel, walk around or rock backwards and forwards.