Knowing what to expect during labor and delivery reduces fear and anxiety and makes it easier to cope with pain. Breathing and relaxation techniques help many women avoid or decrease the need for medication. This will serve to educate you about the delivery process and take away fears. Support from a partner or coach not only enhances the birth experience, but also helps reduce the need for medication. Each woman's perception and experience of labor pain is unique.
Some women plan and prepare for an unmedicated birth and are successful in their goal.
Others want pain relief as soon as it is safe. Fatigue, anxiety, or medical considerations may make pain medication or anesthesia necessary or desirable. Usually, clinicians can use these drugs with minimal risk to the baby. There also may be times when medication cannot be used safely. You really can't know until labor whether you'll want pain relief or what type is best for you.