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Summary
Gynaecologists condemned the cultural belief that labour pain is a punishment for women from God, and that they should endure it. They advocate for pain relief during childbirth as part of a holistic maternal care and the dignity of women.
Debunking the cultural belief that labour pain is a punishment for women from God and must be endured, gynaecologists have called for the abolishment of this unfounded medical theory and encouraged the use of pain relief for women during childbirth.
Labour pain is the pain experienced during childbirth due to the contractions of the muscles of the uterus and pressure on the cervix. The pain comes in stages and is accompanied by cramping in the abdomen, aching, and throbbing.
The health experts interviewed by PUNCH Healthwise explained that pain management during childbirth is part of holistic maternal care, reduces health risks for babies, and prevents postpartum haemorrhage for new mothers. Pain relief is a standard practice of well-equipped health centres, and women should be counselled about it before delivery.
The health experts listed epidurals, anaesthesia, analgesics, and injections as part of the pain relief treatment. They advised that all administration of the drugs should be done professionally and under medical supervision. Timing is especially essential in pain relief as it can ensure both mother and child’s safety or impair their health.
The health experts stressed that labour is one of the most delicate periods because the definition of labour itself is tied to pain and there is nothing wrong with using relieving pain during labour. Moreover, pain relief is significantly beneficial to women as it reduces labour stress.
The health experts also pointed out that persistent pain of childbirth is often due to outdated practice beliefs still held by some hospitals and communities. Also, with the availability of pain relief options, women should not be made to go through the excruciating process of childbirth.
They concluded that women should not be denied safe relief measures due to culture or resource limitations, and the mindset about childbirth pain should be abolished as it relates to women’s mental well-being and dignity.
