Pain medications can be extremely helpful at certain times and in certain situations in labor. They can dramatically ease the pain of labor and can be vital in managing complicated or difficult labors. Yet, like most medical interventions, they have some risks for mothers and babies and should be used only with full knowledge of all options and alternatives as well as of the risks and benefits.

Medications do not take the place of emotional support, encouragement, and comfort measures, which are essential regardless of whether … More