an alternative. Some NHS hospitals, such as The Whittington Hospital in North London, even offer acupuncture as part of the suite of pain relief methods available to labouring women.Acupuncture at The Whittington is used to reduce pain, anxiety and vomiting

the pain signals from your womb and cervix reaching your brain. They also stimulate endorphins - your body's natural painkillers. PROS: You administer your own pain relief, so you feel in control. Twiddling the dials may help to take your mind off