Decision aid: Pain during childbirth: What can help?

Decision aids can help you make a decision about health-related issues such as: Should you have surgery? Which medication would you consider taking? What happens if you decide not to have a certain treatment?

Decision aids summarize the main pros and cons of the various treatment options. They can't replace a medical consultation. But they can help you to discuss any remaining questions with your doctor and then decide together if one of the treatments is right for you.

What's in the decision aid on pain during childbirth?

Different women experience pain during childbirth very differently. It is normal to wonder how you’ll cope when the time comes. Having a caring support person to look after you and encourage you can be a big help. Other options without medication include controlled breathing, relaxation techniques and moving around. You can practice these in places like birthing classes. They can help you cope with the pain and the contractions.

Medication can be used too. This decision aid describes the main medication-based pain-relief options in Germany, explaining the pros and cons of epidurals and opioids. It can help you make the right decision for you, together with your midwife or doctor.

You can download and print the decision aid here:

Preview of decision aid labor pain treatments

Pain during childbirth: What can help?

Eight A4 pages

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Please note that we do not provide individual advice on matters of health. You can read about where to find help and support in Germany in our information “How can I find self-help groups and information centers?

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Created on September 14, 2026

Next planned update: 2029

Publisher:

Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG, Germany)

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