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An important thing to know about labor: they call it labor for a reason. They do not call it day at the spa or magazine reading. Even though for those who opt for an epidural - many will have to push a watermelon through a pinhole at some point. Many of those who opt for an epidural will have to reach a point where they can have access to an epidural - and thus should be prepared to labor. Many of those who opt for an epidural may find themselves bumped or having to wait for an anesthesiologist and should also be prepared to cope with labor.

One of the most important techniques to use in coping with labor is PREPARATION. One should be prepared for a pain so powerful it will threaten to take your very breath away. Preparation will provide one with the courage to believe that they are in fact, stronger than that pain. Here, it is helpful to have a partner that will support you when you cease to believe and provide you the strength you will need to continue. Practice talking to your support person with your eyes so you can see his faith and encouragement with a mere glance; so you can believe you are in this together. Attend childbirth classes, read books by LeBoyer and Lamaze so you fully understand the physical, spiritual and mental reasoning behind an unmedicated birth. If you choose to pursue an unmedicated birth, you must forget that an epidural is a possible option for you: labor is strenuous enough that in most cases those who only would pursue an epidural "if they needed it" -needed it.

Techniques for coping with labor cannot be completely covered in one article when libraries of books have been written on the topic. However, a synopsis of some of the current trends can be reviewed.

Breathing: As a support person DO NOT EVER scream "BREATHE, BREATHE, DEEP BREATHS, BABY, C'MON". Laboring women have a muscle contracting so insanely tight right next to their diaphragm and cannot possibly take a deep breath. What needs to be done is that a particular breathing pattern is decided upon and the woman takes shallow breaths or pants to climb the contraction, hold the peak, and come down. Some people also use images with this or an internal mantra, such as "ride the wave" or "climb the mountain." It is important the breathing be fast enough paced to match the contraction but not too fast as to become hyperventilated. When the contraction is done, THEN, it is important to take a relaxing deep breath (hold for three count) and replenish muscles with oxygen. A woman should

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