She Found Motherhood Podcast

Your Guide to Pain Relief in Labour: From A to Z

She Found Motherhood Podcast

Show Notes

The experience of pain in labour is shaped by many factors - previous experiences, as well as emotional, physical, motivational, cognitive, social, and cultural circumstances.

In this episode, Drs. Alicia and Sarah explore both medicinal and non-medicinal strategies for managing pain, with a special focus on epidurals (a topic we’re often asked about!). Understanding your options is key to making decisions that feel right for you, even when labour doesn’t go entirely according to plan.

To support you, we’ve put together a free handout on the Risks and Benefits of Epidurals and How to Support Your Partner in Labour, along with related episodes on Hypnobirthing and Waterbirths.

Subscribe to The Pregnancy to Parenthood Podcast Series! For the low, one-time cost of $47, get full access to over 40 informative episodes supporting you week by week, focused on the trimester and stage of pregnancy you are in. Tune in every week, or binge listen all at once and come back to the episodes you found most helpful as you move through pregnancy to parenthood!

*This episode is a re-release. Original release date: April 19, 2023.

More from She Found Motherhood Podcast

Dec 24, 2025

In this episode of the She Found Motherhood podcast, Dr. Alicia sits down with registered midwife Heidi Machnee for a deep, evidence-based conversation about water birth and water immersion during labour. Whether you’re planning a home birth, curious about using a tub for labour comfort, or simply want to understand your options, this episode is packed with practical, research-backed insights.

Dec 10, 2025

Babywearing is the timeless practice of holding your baby close using a sling, wrap, or structured carrier - and it offers far more than convenience. In this episode, Dr. Alicia breaks down the science behind babywearing, the physical and emotional benefits for both parent and baby, and how to position your newborn safely and comfortably.

Nov 26, 2025

The transition into new parenthood can feel… a lot. We spend months prepping for labour and delivery, only to be completely blindsided by the postpartum roller coaster 0 the hormones, the relationship shifts, the sleep (or lack thereof), the identity shake-ups - all of it.

Nov 12, 2025

Pregnancy is undeniably a time of rapid physical change, and for women with a history of avoiding their bodies or engaging in behaviours that reinforce negative body image, that avoidance suddenly becomes impossible. While this can feel incredibly challenging, it can also open the door to meaningful healing around your relationship with food and your body.

See all episodes →