Pain Relief Options in Labour: A Complete Guide for Indian Women

ByHemali Ramchandani
Updated: 11 Nov 2025, 11:30 am

Labour pain can be intense and unpredictable, but it isn’t something you have to face without support. Today, Indian hospitals and birthing centres offer a range of options, from breathing techniques and water immersion to epidurals and gas mixtures, that help you stay comfortable and focused through delivery. Understanding these methods and knowing when they’re suitable can help you make informed, calm decisions on your birthing day.

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Labour is one of the most physically demanding experiences your body will ever go through. Each woman’s pain threshold, labour length, and comfort needs differ, which is why there’s no single “right” way to manage labour pain. In India, attitudes toward pain relief are changing. Where earlier, many women delivered without medical assistance for fear of side effects, there’s now growing awareness that controlled pain relief can make childbirth safer and less traumatic.
In this article:
Let’s explore the full spectrum of pain relief options available (medical and non-medical) so you can plan a birth that feels both supported and empowering.

Understanding Labour Pain

Labour pain arises from a mix of physical and hormonal processes: uterine contractions, pressure on the cervix and pelvis, and the body’s natural response to stress. The pain is real but also functional. It signals progress as your cervix opens and your baby descends.

Yet, intensity varies widely. Some women feel strong back pain, others experience rhythmic cramps, and some feel little pain until the final stage. Pain relief should therefore match your comfort level, medical safety, and labour stage.

Non-Medical Pain Relief Techniques

These are often the first line of comfort measures, especially in early or low-risk labour. They work by calming your mind, improving blood flow, and helping your body release natural endorphins, its own pain-relieving hormones.

1. Breathing and Relaxation: Slow, deep breathing helps control tension and oxygenate your body. Lamaze and “paced breathing” methods (inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth) can reduce panic and make contractions feel more manageable.
  • Best for: Early to active labour.
  • Availability: Common in Indian antenatal classes and midwife-led birthing units.
2. Movement and Position Changes: Walking, rocking on a birthing ball, or kneeling on all fours can relieve back pressure and aid baby descent. Upright positions often shorten labour by improving gravity’s assistance.
  • Best for: All stages except when advised bed rest.
3. Massage and Counter-Pressure: Gentle lower-back massages or firm counter-pressure during contractions help distract the brain and relax tense muscles. Partners can learn these techniques in childbirth classes.
4. Warm Compresses and Hydrotherapy: Applying a warm compress or sitting in a warm-water tub (available in some Indian maternity centres) eases muscle tension and reduces pain perception. Avoid very hot water, especially if you have high blood pressure or infection risk.
5. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): A small battery device sends mild electrical pulses through pads on your back, helping block pain signals. It’s drug-free and can be used at home early in labour.
  • Best for: Early labour or when avoiding medications.
6. Music, Meditation, and Visualisation: Guided imagery and calming sounds can lower cortisol and encourage rhythmic breathing. Some Indian hospitals allow Bluetooth speakers or headsets in labour rooms.
7. Birth Support and Environment: Having a supportive companion (partner, doula, or trusted relative) can reduce anxiety and the need for pharmacological pain relief. Emotional reassurance releases oxytocin, aiding smoother contractions.

Medical Pain Relief Options

For many women, non-medical techniques help during early labour, but stronger methods may be needed as contractions intensify. All options should be discussed with your obstetrician beforehand, as availability differs between hospitals.

1. Epidural Anaesthesia: An epidural delivers anaesthetic into the lower spine, numbing pain below the waist while keeping you awake. Administered by an anaesthetist, it’s the most effective form of pain relief used in Indian tertiary hospitals.

How it works: A small catheter placed in the epidural space continuously delivers medication during labour. You remain conscious and can push when directed.
Pros:
  • Significant pain relief without affecting alertness.
  • Adjustable dosage for prolonged labour.
Cons:
  • May cause temporary drop in blood pressure or shivering.
  • Slightly increases risk of assisted delivery (forceps/vacuum).
  • Not always available in smaller towns or government hospitals.
When not suitable: If you have clotting disorders, infection at injection site, or severe spinal issues.

2. Spinal and Combined Spinal-Epidural (CSE): Used mainly for caesarean births or very rapid labours. Medication is injected into the spinal fluid, offering immediate relief lasting 1–2 hours.
  • Advantage: Fast-acting and precise.
  • Disadvantage: Can cause temporary leg numbness and drop in blood pressure.
CSE combines both, instant relief from spinal dose, sustained control from epidural top-up.

3. Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”): A 50:50 mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen inhaled through a mask during contractions. It’s self-administered, safe, and doesn’t affect baby’s heart rate.
  • Pros: Quick action, control remains with you.
  • Cons: Can cause mild dizziness or nausea.
Availability: Offered in select private hospitals in metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.

4. Opioid Injections (e.g., Tramadol, Pethidine): Used when an epidural isn’t possible. Injected into muscle or vein, opioids dull pain without full numbness.
  • Pros: Useful during early active labour or while awaiting epidural setup.
  • Cons: May cause drowsiness or nausea; high doses close to delivery can make the baby sleepy temporarily.
  • Note: Always administered under medical supervision.
5. Local Anaesthesia and Pudendal Block: For pain relief in the final stage or during episiotomy repair. A local anaesthetic is injected near the vaginal opening or pudendal nerve to numb the area.
  • Best for: Short, focused pain control during crowning or stitching.
  • Usually performed: By obstetrician at delivery table.

Complementary and Traditional Pain Relief Methods

India’s cultural wisdom around childbirth includes safe, supportive methods that can complement medical care when approved by your doctor.
1. Ayurvedic and Herbal Oils: Warm sesame or coconut oil applied as gentle massage before labour helps relax muscles and calm the mind. However, avoid internal applications or unverified herbal concoctions.
2. Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender or orange may reduce anxiety when diffused in a well-ventilated room. Not all oils are pregnancy-safe; always confirm with your healthcare provider.
3. Heat Therapy and Steam: Moderate local warmth on the lower back or thighs improves blood circulation. Avoid direct heat on the abdomen.
4. Yoga, Pranayama, and Chanting: Prenatal yoga and rhythmic breathing reduce stress hormones and keep oxygen flow steady. Many Indian mothers use “Om” chanting or Gayatri mantra during contractions to stay centred.

How to Make the Right Choice for You

Pain relief should never be seen as weakness. It’s about safety, comfort, and emotional readiness. When deciding:
  • Discuss options early: During antenatal visits, ask what’s available at your hospital.
  • Prepare a birth plan: Include preferred positions, companions, and pain relief hierarchy (e.g., natural → medical).
  • Stay flexible: Labour can change quickly; being open to medical help does not invalidate natural preferences.
  • Trust your body and your team: Whether you deliver with an epidural or through mindful breathing, both are valid, supported choices.
Early communication helps adjust dosage or switch to another method safely. Pain management is not only physical. It’s deeply emotional. Having informed, compassionate support makes labour less frightening.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Pain Relief Options in Labour: A Complete Guide for Indian Women

  1. Is labour pain the same for everyone?
    No. Pain levels differ based on baby’s position, labour length, and individual pain threshold. Some women manage with natural methods; others may need medical pain relief.
  2. Does taking an epidural slow down labour?
    Sometimes it can prolong the second stage slightly, but modern low-dose epidurals have minimal impact. Studies show no difference in overall delivery outcomes.
  3. Can I move or walk after an epidural?
    Most women can shift or sit upright. However, walking epidurals are rare in India due to safety monitoring needs.
  4. Are pain medicines harmful to the baby?
    Epidurals and nitrous oxide are considered safe when monitored. Opioids can affect the baby if given too close to delivery; dosage timing is important.
Disclaimer: Approved by Dr. Sushma Tomar, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan

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