Pain Relief Options for Induced Labour: What’s Available at East Surrey and Epsom Hospitals?
- Rosemary Scott
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
If you’re preparing for an induction, it’s completely natural to wonder how you’ll manage the sensations of labour—especially if things feel less “natural” or spontaneous than expected. The good news? Both East Surrey Hospital and Epsom Hospital offer a full range of pain relief options, and you can absolutely still have a positive, empowered birth.
Here’s a guide to what’s available, including drug-free alternatives to help you feel more in control.
Natural & Alternative Pain Relief Options
These methods work by supporting your body’s natural ability to cope with labour, often used in early stages or alongside other methods.
Hypnobirthing
Many mums find hypnobirthing techniques—like breathing, visualisation, and relaxation—help them stay calm and focused during contractions. It's also invaluable when accepting induced birth is right for you and letting go of any anxiety around it before it begins. This will help your body response to the process.
I can support you with bespoke 121 coaching online to discuss your Induced Birth Plan and I also have a Guide and Digital Positive Induced Birth Course available. Just get in touch to discuss.
Pros: Reduces anxiety, builds confidence, can make labour feel more manageable.
Cons: Best learned ahead of time—practice helps it work.
Birth Combs
A simple but surprisingly effective tool. By gripping a comb, you apply pressure to acupressure points in your hand, which distracts from contraction pain.
Available: Bring your own comb to hospital.
Pros: Inexpensive, portable, and drug-free.
Cons: May not offer full relief in stronger stages of labour.
Water (Showers & Birth Pools)
Warm water can be a huge relief in early labour. Epsom’s birth centre and East Surrey’s midwife-led unit offer birthing pools.
Pros: Soothes aches, supports movement, promotes calm.
Cons: Not available during later stages of medical induction or with certain monitors in place.
Aromatherapy, massage, movement & breathing
Encouraged at both hospitals. Many mums find walking, using a birth ball, or having a supportive birth partner apply counter-pressure helps a lot.
Pros: Natural, empowering, and effective for many.
Cons: May need to be combined with other options later.
Inhaled Pain Relief
Entonox (Gas & Air)
A mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide you breathe in during contractions.
Available at both hospitals
Pros: Quick, self-controlled, no lasting effects.
Cons: Can cause dizziness or nausea; may not be enough alone.
Injection-Based Pain Relief
Pethidine or Diamorphine
An opioid injection into your thigh or bottom, used to take the edge off stronger contractions.
Available in both hospitals.
Pros: Helps you rest, especially in early labour.
Cons: Can cause drowsiness and affect baby’s alertness after birth.
Remifentanil (PCA – patient-controlled analgesia)
A fast-acting painkiller you control through a drip.
Typically available on labour wards at both hospitals.
Pros: Quick relief, wears off fast.
Cons: Requires close monitoring and can make you feel sleepy or lightheaded.
Epidural
An epidural is a type of local anaesthetic injected into your back that blocks pain from the waist down.
Available on labour wards at both East Surrey and Epsom.
Pros: Excellent pain relief, especially for long or intense labours.
Cons: May limit movement and require additional monitoring or assistance during pushing.
Pain relief in labour isn’t just about medication—it’s about having choices, feeling heard, and being supported. Whether you prefer to lean into natural methods like hypnobirthing and birth combs, or are open to an epidural when things get intense, the team at East Surrey and Epsom are there to help you have the birth that’s right for you.
Remember: Induction doesn’t mean you can’t have a positive, empowered experience. Talk through your options with your midwife or get in touch if you'd like my help to discuss your preferences and create your birth plan. You deserve to feel calm, confident and cared for—no matter how your baby’s journey into the world begins.
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