Preface/Disclaimer

It seems as if a lot of my hubs are going to start with one of these. First of all, I know NOTHING about childbirth. I know I was born once, and I know I never intend to go through it myself. However, a friend of mine did a huge project on a related topic, so I'm writing from memory of that and a little bit of outside knowledge. This hub will, however, probably be very short.

Positioning

I know I said I don't know anything about childbirth, but I do know that the little beds they put you on with the feet-holders are extremely uncomfortable and probably put you in the worst position possible to give birth. They way your body folds in the standard hospital method of positioning a woman in labour makes it almost impossible to push the baby out. There are a huge number of other positions that don't require a degree in contortionism and make the birth a lot easier. One that I know of involves standing in front of a table and leaning over, using the table to hold up your torso which is now perpendicular to your legs. Spreading your feet a bit from this position will put you in a much more comfortable birthing position. There are many more of these, but that's the only one I know off the top of my head.

Location

People seem to be giving birth all over the place these days, from their own homes to hospitals to restrooms at McDonald's. Being in a more comfortable environment might help ease some of the pain, for you'll be more able to relax than you would be otherwise. If having your child at home or somewhere else familiar isn't realistic, try to surround yourself with things that will make you feel at home.

In addition, many women claim that giving birth under water (for example, in a bathtub, don't drown yourself) eases the pain. This has mixed reviews, though, so I'm not sure it's really the best idea. It might be, though--who knows?

Stretching

Obviously, it's important to get exercise and stretch while you're pregnant to help ease the pain. What most people don't realise is that there are stretches that make the pain go away almost completely. Again, I can't really elaborate as I haven't gone through it myself, but different classes will offer different stretches and you should find one that will help you.

People

Having people around with whom you're comfortable will definitely make it easier, and the hospital often won't provide them unless you take the time to get to know your obstetrician. I highly, HIGHLY reccomend getting a Doula or a Midwife, or both. You can have a midwife with you in the hospital aiding the doctors and nurses. A Doula will help you all through your pregnancy, helping you find the different stretches you need and teaching you different positions in which to give birth. During delivery, a Doula will focus on the upper half of your body, providing physical contact (which provides a lot more pain relief than one would expect) and helping you through it. A midwife will help make things more comfortable on the bottom half of your body. A doula will know and be able to help you with a lot more ways to ease the pain naturally and ways to make your childbirth an enjoyable experience from the very beginning.

In Conclusion

You should probably get a doula.