Pain medications are not available at home due to the risks they pose to you and your baby. But, I offer something that helps most moms not even think about pain medications – loving support and the freedom to labor at your own pace in a comfortable environment, surrounded by people you trust. Since research shows that stress hormones increase pain and slow labor, I try to keep your environment as low-stress as possible for you. I encourage you to move freely during labor, which helps you cope with contractions and helps the labor process. You’ll be free to eat and drink as you wish, which lowers your pain threshold. Many women choose to spend at least part of labor in water, which is soothing and facilitates rhythmic movements. Having less intervention in your labor allows your body to naturally release hormones that help with pain management. In addition, I carry herbs and homeopathic remedies to help you cope, when appropriate. Some moms just need a hand to hold, eye contact, and reassurance. Others need help working through each contraction, while others merely need to be left alone. I take my cues from you during labor.