Pain management in labour

Non-medicinal pain relief

• Ambulation
• Massage
• Breathing exercises
• Positioning
• Hydrotherapy tub if available

Medicinal pain relief

It is important to discuss pain control management with your health care provider and see what options are available to you.

Narcotics: these do not eliminate pain but reduce the perception of pain

Epidural: a thin catheter is inserted, through your back, just outside the spinal column and medication is administered through this catheter. You will have pain relief from the waist down

Postpartum Self Medication Program (PPSMP)

The PPSMP allows you to take your own medications while in hospital, after the baby is born. It is an alternative method of providing you with your medication without having to wait for the nurse to bring it to you. You will be taught when and how to take each medication.
Some mothers are not eligible for this program.
You will sign a consent once you are at the hospital and will be taught about the program.