7 Ways to make childbirth less painful

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While the miracle of childbirth is a beautiful experience, there's no denying that it comes with some feelings of intense discomfort. A new study says that childbirth pain isn't as painful as women claim it is, but anyone who's delivered a child will probably remember how much it hurt to push that baby out! Epidurals might help ease the pain, but there are other ways to make childbirth a little easier on your body. Below are some tips to make your labor less painful.

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New research shows that women who have low levels of vitamin D requested more pain medication during labor. Vitamin D deficiencies are common during pregnancy, so make sure you get regular exposure to sunlight (don't forget your SPF!), intake dietary supplements and choose foods fortified with vitamin D.
Stay in shape by taking a prenatal fitness class, yoga, swimming, or just walking regularly. Fit bodies have shorter labors and can handle the length and intensity of labor pains.
Take childbirth classes to know exactly what to expect when you're expecting. Lamaze classes will teach you how paying attention to your breath can ease some of the pain during labor.
Get that anxiety out by strolling the halls of the hospital, pacing around your room, or even bouncing on an inflatable birthing ball as you wait for the big moment to arrive.
Try to relax as much as possible. Make sure your stress relief kit contains any music, massage oils, light snacks, water and anything else that will calm you down. This also includes the people who will provide support and encouragement when you need it most.
If your hospital has a birthing tub, consider going for a dip. Some women swear by it and say it makes the contractions easier to bear. A warm shower and a showerhead massage will also do wonders to soothe tense muscles.
Consider hiring a doula who will guide you and your partner through the labor process. Research shows that those who enlisted the help of a doula are 30 percent less likely to need pain medications and their labors are 25 percent shorter than those who forgo labor support.