I have decided not to take any drugs during labour

Generally, people prefer not to use any drugs because they are known to dim your awareness of the process and deprive you of a unique experience. But not many know the amount of pain that they can bear without relief. So even if you have decided you do not want to use pain-relieving drugs during labour, it is important to know the kinds of relief available to you. You can use regional anaesthesia, inhalation analgesics, narcotics or sedatives and tranquilizers.
 

What kind of pain-relieving drugs can one take during labour

Regional anaesthetic:
These are helpful to remove sensations of pain by blocking the transmission of pain from the nerve fibers. 

Inhalation analgesics:
These consist of gases that includes Entonox (oxygen and gas) and works to numb the pain centre in the brain. As the contraction starts, you are required to put on the mask and inhale deeply. You will feel as though you are floating.

Narcotics:
The most commonly used narcotic is pethidine (derived from morphine). This is injected into the thigh or buttock in the first stage. It acts on the nerve cells in the brain and spine. Doctors will start with a small dose at first to gauge its effect on you.

Sedatives and tranquilizers:
These help in reducing anxiety, control nausea and lower blood pressure. But they also make you feel sleepy. On the plus side, you will get to rest well between contractions. Commonly used ones are Sparine and Chloral.
 

What are the different kinds of regional anaesthetics

Caudal anaesthesia: It is injected into the spinal area and numbs your vagina and perineum. As this provides relief for a short span, it is ideal for vacuum extractions and forceps deliveries.

Pudendal nerve anaesthesia: If you need an epsiotomy, then anaesthesia is injected straight into the vagina, near the pelvis, to block the pudendal nerve.

Epidural: The most popular form of this anaesthesia is the epidural block.
 

What is epidural and when is it useful

An epidural is the most popular form of a regional anaesthetic.  It blocks out all sensation from your waist to your knees, but more importantly, you remain alert.. The doctor may recommend using an epidural if you having a difficult labour, preeclampsia, asthma, a forceps delivery or a caesarian section. It serves as a 'nerve block' in your spine, thus preventing pain from spreading from your uterus.