padsto fix several electrode pads on your back to help stimulate your nerve endings. It has three different programs, so you can adjust the settings depending on how much pain relief you need.Where can I get one?You can hire one from hospitals

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

As B-Day approaches, one thing preying on your mind will be how you'll manage the pain.'There are no Brownie points for bravery,' says consultant midwife Annette Briley. 'If you need pain relief, don't be afraid to ask. There are many different

. Here, we unravel some old wives' tales to help remove the fear factor about labour and pain relief.Epidurals make it impossible to push = FictionThis used to be true with the extra strong doses that were given years ago, but that's not the case any more

pools are available to buy at £39.95 from www.birthpoolinabox.co.uk/ or freephone 0800 035 0514 to order. SPINAL BLOCKYou'll be given an injection of local anaesthetic in the small of your back. This will numb the nerves to your womb and cervix so you

PROS FOR AN EPIDURALHighly effective form of pain reliefAllows you to restCan be topped up throughout your labourProviding it's left to wear off, you should be able to feel when to pushYou'll feel clear-headedThe drugs used will have no effect

round on a plastic chair with the shower directed on your lower back. Dip cloth in hot water, wring out and place on painful areas. Extra info - Getting into a birthing pool before you're 5cm/2in dilated can stop a slow labour. Some midwives are uneasy

labours, for example, fast, short-acting pain relief may be more appropriate,' says Jean.If you want an epidural, write it in your birth plan - you can still change your mind on the day. Talk to your midwife if you're worried as she may be able to arrange

Mention hypnosis and many people think of a Paul McKenna stage show where the participants aren't in control of their own actions. But lots of mums are turning to it as a form of pain relief in labour, claiming it is natural, equipment-free and has

or suppliers from around £20 for 7 weeks. Water This can be a very effective form of natural pain relief.    Advantages:It's totally natural and the buoyancy of the water makes it easier move around.    Disadvantages:You'll need to hire or buy a pool. You have