Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is becoming an increasingly popular method of easing labor pains. The pressure, pulse and warmth of a shower during the first stage of labor and the buoyant, weightless freedom of a birth tub during the second stage are both helpful in moving through labor. Learn more about the positive effects of water birth.
Reflexology: Reflexology is the process of applying pressure or strokes to certain areas of the feet to relieve pain or problems in other parts of the body. The theory suggests that the feet are a map to the body. Stimulation of nerve endings sends messages to the affected areas and releases endorphins and monoamines, which control pain.