Pharmacological Pain Relief for Childbirth

Learn what the available options are for labor, whether that's opioids or regional anesthesia (and what the drugs actually are) and more.

Learn what the risks and benefits are to each option, so that if or when you choose one, you are truly making an informed choice.

Learn which ones can be safely used in what birth settings: hospital (all of them) or birth center or home (only some of them).

You'll Learn:

  • which ones can be helpful for supporting a prodromal labor
  • which ones are options for a vaginal birth
  • which ones are used for a cesarean birth

Learn best strategies:

There are certain situations where one choice is better than another

  • Learn how to reduce or avoid negative consequences: for labor progress, for baby, for mom
  • Understand which drug options to use (or not use) in which situations —for the best outcomes for baby and mom
  • Gain knowledge about: dosing, timing, how things change when the pushing phase begins
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Inside the Lessons:

  • Nitrous Oxide: What Is It, How It's Taken Into the Body in Labor, When It's Most Ideal, Where It Can Be Accessed
  • Epidurals and Spinals:  What They Are, How They are Put in Place, Side-Effects, Timing Considerations, Coping Considerations
  • Opioids: What They Are, How They are Given, Side-Effects, Timing Considerations
  • The High Maternal Morbidity & Mortality Rates in the U.S. & Risks for Black Women Birthing in the U.S.
  • Questions for Yourself & for Your Provider
  • The Research: Studies & Articles
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I know now that depending on what you see, you may not know all the options that are out there for couples. I will now wholeheartedly endorse midwifery, doulas and your course – not only as a father but as a Paramedic. You have opened these eyes to something that I never would have embraced. I thank you so much for a life changing course and experience.

— Ryan Collyer

Working with Rava in her birth prep course was a gift from God! Rava is extremely talented in what she does as a veteran doula and childbirth educator. Her attention to detail and compassion and love truly made this course a memorable experience! She provided us with essential tools for the unknown laborland experience.

— Amber Hanlon, mother of 3, yoga teacher

These aren't just "prenatal classes". They are so much more. Paul and I want to thank you for enlightening us about the realities of labour and birth. Personally, I feel your course freed my being of many fears I had about the labour and birth experience. Your love of what you do and your commitment to women around you was very inspirational.

— Rosa Malta, architect

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