My midwife says that I can have my baby at home, but what pain relief will I be able to have?

Evidence suggests that women who stay at home for as long as possible, or the whole of the labour, have a more positive experience. This includes needing less pain relief. By adopting the correct positions, using massage, breathing and relaxation techniques can all help. Alternative therapies such as: aromatherapy, homeopathy, reflexology and acupuncture can be used, as long as an appropriately trained person is providing them. Warm water in baths and hired pools can be used as an effective pain relief. The midwife can also offer ‘gas and air’ and pethidine as an alternative, if the above is not helping.

See: Page, L (2000) The New midwifery: science and sensitivity in to practice. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh.