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March 2025 Babies
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Non-epidural pain management for labor…please share your experiences!

knottie16cd3ab9d2b893d7knottie16cd3ab9d2b893d7 member
in March 2025 Babies
Hey mamas!! I am 36, gearing up to have baby #3. With my first two I opted for epidurals (my first epidural made me wayyyy to numb, my second was perfect - no pain but could still feel everything so I knew when to push and was up on my feet a lot faster than with #1). This time though I want to explore some other options to minimize the side effects I’ve experienced (mega-itchy, numb legs, restless legs etc) so I can enjoy that immediate post partum time to the fullest. I would love to hear your experiences and suggestions, and maybe what to avoid if you had a not so great experience. Thank you!! ❤️
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Re: Non-epidural pain management for labor…please share your experiences!

  • 23Shelby23Shelby member
    I used the laughing gas to help with some of the pain but honestly didn’t need it as much during labor as I did when I was getting a few stitches after. 
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  • knottie728f12ce5fff8b4cknottie728f12ce5fff8b4c member
    edited November 2024
    I have 4 kids no epidural, probably opt for Iv pain reliever.. 
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  • mrscristymazmrscristymaz member
    I practiced Hypnobirthing before and during labor and while my labor wasn’t pain free, I was able to breath through it and birth naturally. I was able to walk and move immediately after birth. 
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  • chasingkacichasingkaci member
    Hi! 36 with baby #3 also :) I did a medication free home birth and while it was challenging, I never felt overwhelmed by pain. The experience of being present through the whole process and being able to feel what my body was experiencing was so worth it. I practiced a lot of meditation while pregnant to get used to being in my own head and body (look on YouTube for guided labor and birth meditations), and I highly recommend reading The Bradley Method, or even attending a class if you can find one. Do your research on your options for movement and positions, because lying or sitting in a bed is the most uncomfortable position. Have someone be clear on your birth plan and be able to advocate for what you want (maybe consider a doula?) - there is a lot of pressure in the moment from hospital staff to start down the path of interventions but each one tends to lead to another. It was such an empowering experience. I know med free birth isn’t for everyone, but if you’re open to it I encourage you to go for it. 
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  • allfacestheoaksallfacestheoaks member
    I had preeclampsia with #1 and had to be induced. I wanted no epidural but my contractions were so painful, I asked for the epidural and the anesthesiologist placed it perfectly. I didn't know when I was having contractions, so I asked the nurse to let me know so that I could push at the right time. 

    I had #2 & #3 at home, complication-free pregnancies with midwives. I handle active labor best while walking. I pace around the house until I get to transition, which I get through easiest while leaning on the couch for support. I'm having another homebirth and plan to walk through my contractions until transition like my other two. I still really like the epidural though.

    I second those who recommended hypnobirth if you're into that, and also hiring a doula. I've heard good things with those options from moms I'm friends with. I didn't do either, I just endured the pain. I hope you find your favorite option that gives you the birth experience you want!
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