As the patient, you are encouraged to explore your options for pain management with your physician. It is a good idea to have a general plan for what techniques, if any, you wish to employ; however, you should keep in mind that when you are actually in labor you may desire to make a different decision than what you had originally planned.

Besides the use of relaxation and breathing techniques, massage, showers and birthing balls, there are a variety of medicines that can help manage the pain related to labor and delivery. The two most common options are an intravenous injection of narcotic medicine or a regional anesthetic (epidural). Memorial Hospital employs certified anesthetists who will work with you to ensure that you receive the right amount of medicine to facilitate pain relief without impairing your ability to remain mobile during delivery. During your pregnancy you should discuss the benefits and side effects of all medical pain management options with your physician.