Whether mild or intense, it's part and parcel of childbirth. And it's something that concerns first-time moms in particular. The good news is that today there are many ways to cope with pain during labor and delivery. Some women choose drug-free options. For example, most expectant parents take Lamaze classes and utilize the breathing and relaxation techniques they learn to deal with discomfort.
Some moms find relief in distractions such as music, television, games or reading.
Massage often helps. And the support of a labor coach and the nursing staff can do wonders. Demerol, a similar drug, is used less frequently, because Nubain works faster and causes less nausea. An increasingly popular method of pain relief is the epidural block which is administered through a fine tube into the epidural space between the spinal cord and the outer membrane. Many women choose this method because it offers very good pain relief.