Natural Labor Pain Relief & Circumcision Decision: What You Need to Know

Question
Hello Cheri.

I have decided to keep my childs birth as natural as possible, but I want to know my options for pain relief without taking something that will make my baby and I drowsy and groggy. Is their such a thing?

My second question is in regards to circumcision.
If we have a son I'm not sure if we should get him, "snipped," or not? What are the medical reasons for having it done?

Answer
Hello Juliana. The methods of pain relief that do not cause problems for the baby are: warm water as in baths and showers, relaxation of mother during contractions, massage, emotional support, walking during contractions, making sure mother eats and drinks during labor. All of these things are best obtained with the help of a Doula or midwife who gives labor support for hospital births. There is NO medical reason for circumcision and the American Pediatic Association has said so. Please go to a website called NOCIRC to learn all about the pros and cons of circumcision. Hope that helps- Cheri.