Here's a nondrug alternative to decreasing pain during labor: Listen to music. Women who listened to lyric-free music (synthesizer, harp, piano, orchestra or jazz) for three
hours during early phases of active labor experienced less pain and distress than women who didn't listen to music, according to a study
in the journal, Pain Management Nursing. The slow, sedative music helped women relax and distracted them from pain. Before you get into
the delivery room, sample different types of music to see which ones relax you most. Choose music that moves at 60 to 80 beats
per minute and doesn't have lyrics. Some suggested CD selections include Fresh Impressions by George Kelly, Nadia's Theme by Roger Williams or
Easy Living by Paul Desmond.
Labor & Delivery