Natural, non-medical pain relief & comfort measures

There are natural and synthetic forms of pain relief, but as a hypnobirthing teacher I always advise clients to stay at home for as long as possible. When you’re labouring at home, you do not have access to synthetic pain relief therefore, it’s important to know and understand how to access and maximise natural forms of pain relief

Endorphins are considered natural painkillers because they activate opioid receptors in the brain that help minimize feelings of discomfort. They can also help create high feelings of euphoria, well-being and strength.

Morphine is the synthetic (man-made) version of endorphins, but endorphins have been measured at up to 20 times stronger than morphine.

What promotes endorphins:

Oxytocin – the love hormone
Feeling safe
Feeling happy, laughter
Sex
Privacy
Quiet
Mindset / affirmations
Warm bath
Essential oils
Yoga
Laughter
Light exercise
Being in nature
Light touch massage
Eating dark chocolate
Dime lights

When it comes to giving birth endorphins are very powerful, but they are only promoted if your birth has a natural, spontaneous start.

What can block endorphins? 

Fear
Stress
Bright lights
Strangers
Artificial oxytocin 
Noise
Epidural 

To find out more about things that can help ease your labour and birth, join me on one of my courses, to find out more feel free to contact me.