Childbirth is one of the most intense moments a woman can experience. Pain is part of it, but why? And most importantly: how do you deal with it in a way that feels good for you? At Midwives Lelystad we believe that you can rely on your own strength and on the smart tools of today. In this article we explain why your labor hurts and what you can do to make it easier - from natural tricks to medical options.

Your body helps you: endorphins and why pain is useful

Did you know that your body produces its own painkillers during labor? These are endorphins – your natural feel-good chemicals. They ease the pain, but only work well when you are relaxed. Stress or fear throws a spanner in the works and slows them down. And that pain? It has a purpose: it tells you when to chill out, sit differently, or push. It is a sign that your baby is coming – a kind of update from your body that everything is on schedule.

A little more: endorphins are a gift from your brain. They are released as your contractions get stronger, like a reward for working so hard. But when you are tense – like in a crowded room or fearing what is coming – your body produces less. That is why a calm vibe is so important. Pain is also a guide: it helps your midwife see how far along you are. Every stitch is a step closer to your baby!

Relax and Soothe: Natural Ways to Relieve Pain

Relaxation is the key. Heat can be your best friend – think a warm bath, a hot shower, or a hot water bottle against your back. Breathing exercises can help you focus and calm down, and a massage from your partner can do wonders. Also try different positions: squatting for space, sitting on your knees helps your pelvis, or lying on your side with a pillow between your legs for support. Moving – yes, even if it feels heavy – can speed things up and ease the pain a little.

More tips? A relaxing playlist or a candle can help calm your mind. Water is also great – not just to sit in, but also to drink, so your body doesn’t dehydrate. And your partner? They can do more than just hold your hand – a firm back massage or just an encouraging word will help you through the peaks. It’s all about what you like, so experiment with what works for you.

When it gets heavier: medical painkillers

Sometimes your own strength is not enough, and that's okay – there are helplines in the hospital:

Epidural: This numbs your lower body and is often the strongest option. Your baby is closely monitored with monitors.
Remifentanil: A quick painkiller through an IV that you control yourself – convenient, but it can make you drowsy.
Nitrous oxide: This relaxes you and takes the edge off, but you won't find it everywhere.

There is no “best” choice – it’s about what you need. Whether you go au naturel or get a shot, you are a star. Every path is your path, and you should be proud of it.

Let’s take a deeper look: an epidural sounds like magic, but it also means you feel less pushing – your midwife will help you with that. Remifentanil is a button in your hand – you press, and within minutes the pain subsides, ideal if you need some air quickly. Nitrous oxide is lighter – you breathe it in and it makes you feel a bit floaty, but you stay clear-headed. Each option has its quirks, so talk to your doctor to see what’s right for you.

Your Head in the Game: Mindset and Being Ready

Fear of pain can make it worse – you tense up, and that feels harder. That's why it's smart to prepare. Make a birth plan – who do you want to be there, what do you want to try? A breathing technique course or pregnancy yoga can give you tools to stay calm. And chat with your midwife about what you want – that will give you control.

Want to know more? Your mindset is a superpower. Knowing what’s coming—contractions are waves, they build and subside—can help you handle them. Visualize your baby, focus on your breath, or repeat a mantra like “I can do this.” Your partner or a doula can also be supportive—a familiar face makes all the difference. It’s your birth, so make it your story.

Conclusion: Your path, your strength

Whether you give birth at home with candlelight and a bath, or choose a hospital with an epidural – it’s all good. At Verloskundigen Lelystad we are behind you with tips and a warm ear. It’s all about that one moment: the day you meet your baby, however you get there. We want you to look back with a smile.

Every birth is different – sometimes it’s a marathon, sometimes it’s a sprint. But whatever you choose, your body is made for this work, and we’re here to help. From a warm shower to an IV, it’s your call. Let’s work together to make that day feel like a victory – you and your baby deserve it.

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