Pain relief during labour 

Within our birth suites you have numerous pain relief options during your labour. Below is a summary of your options, but we encourage you to speak with your obstetrician to make an informed choice when considering pain relief.

Pharmacological

  • Nitrous Oxide
  • Narcotics
  • Epidurals

Non-pharmacological

  • Birth balls
  • Aromatherapy
  • Hypnobirthing
  • Water immersion
  • Sterile water injections
  • TENS

If you are considering water immersion for pain relief (if water immersion is available at your nearest Mater Mothers), please discuss this with your obstetrician prior to your expected delivery date.

TENS in labour

TENS, or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, assists by stimulating the body’s own mechanisms to cope with pain by blocking the nerves that detect painful sensations to reduce the sensation of pain, and by assisting the body to release its own morphine like substances (endorphins).

TENS in Labour—tutorial and hire

TENS assists by stimulating the body’s own mechanisms to cope with pain by:

  • blocking the nerves that detect painful sensations, hence reducing the sensation of pain
  • assisting the body to release its own morphine like substances (endorphins).

TENS is non-invasive and has no known side effects to the mother or baby. Experienced physiotherapists run a tutorial which is best to attend at around 37 weeks of your pregnancy.

Please book early into the tutorial to avoid disappointment.

When and where?
Classes are run weekly at Mater Mothers’ Hospital.

What is the cost?
$100 deposit, $30 hire, $20 gel pads (pay at the class).

When to book?
Pease call when you’re approximately 30 weeks pregnant to be booked it at 37 weeks

How do I book?
For enquiry, booking and pre-payment of Tens in Labour, please phone 07 3163 6000 (prompt 2 and 2).

Individual consultation

Women’s health physiotherapists are available for individual outpatient consultation throughout your pregnancy and after the birth of your baby, providing a seamless, specialised physiotherapy service for you at this very important time.

Please phone 07 3163 6000 for further information or to make an appointment.

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For urgent assessment at any stage of your pregnancy, please present to your nearest emergency centre or Mater Mothers’ 24/7 Pregnancy Assessment Centre in South Brisbane.

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