How to Ease Labor Pain through Understanding of Science
- cloudninechildbirth
- Feb 20, 2015
- 1 min read
The pain of labor is generally a pregnant woman’s biggest concern about having a baby. For many of us it is the most intimidating and, ultimately, uncomfortable experience we’ve ever encountered. Understanding one particular theory of pain and what it implies for managing pain during labor may boost your confidence in your ability, or your partner’s ability, to cope in the moment.
The Gate Control Theory of Pain describes two different types of nerve fibers, large and small, and the way in which signals travel along them to the brain.
Large nerve fibers transmit sensory input such as pressure, non-harmful heat and cold, light touch, and texture—input that is not painful. These messages stimulate inhibitory and projection neurons in such a way as to “close the gate” or keep signals from going to the brain.
Small nerve fibers transmit messages of pain. In doing so, the inhibitory neuron is inactivated, allowing the projection neuron to send the signal of pain to the brain, or “open the gate.”
When pain is experienced, as in childbirth, normal sensory input can close some of the gates to the brain and lessen the perception of pain. Just as you might rub or shake your thumb after smashing it with a hammer, you can employ similar approaches during labor. Gentle massage, light touch, foot rubbing, cool cloths, heat packs, warm water in a bath or shower, hand holding, kissing, and touching soft textures are a few ideas.
Be sure to discuss or practice these ahead of time, so you know which ones you or your partner prefer or might most benefit from.
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