Labor induction is the deliberate process of starting labor using medical interventions before it begins naturally. A frequent concern among expectant parents is whether induced labor will be more painful than spontaneous labor. While pain is subjective, distinct physiological differences often contribute to the perception of greater intensity and discomfort during an induced labor. Understanding how induction affects the body helps explain this concern.
How Synthetic Oxytocin Affects Contraction Intensity
The increased intensity of induced labor is closely linked to the action of synthetic oxytocin, commonly known as Pitocin or Syntocinon, which is administered intravenously. Natural oxytocin is released by the body in pulses, gradually increasing in concentration to stimulate contractions. This gradual escalation allows the body to acclimate to the rising intensity of the uterine muscle activity.
Synthetic oxytocin, however, is given as a continuous infusion, which directly stimulates the uterus and often bypasses this natural, gradual build-up. The resulting contractions tend to start stronger and closer together almost immediately, without the initial mild phases of spontaneous labor. This rigid onset means the birthing person may experience intense contractions very early in the process, which is a major factor in the perception of increased pain.
Furthermore, natural oxytocin released by the body can cross the blood-brain barrier, activating pleasure and reward centers that provide a calming, pain-relieving effect to help counter the stress of labor. Synthetic oxytocin administered through an IV infusion does not cross into the brain in the same way. This absence of the hormone’s comforting effects, combined with the harsher contraction pattern, can significantly heighten the overall feeling of pain and stress.
The stronger, more frequent contractions can lead to uterine hyperstimulation (tachysystole), defined as five or more contractions in a ten-minute period. Medical staff carefully monitor contraction patterns and the baby’s heart rate to prevent this complication. Hyperstimulation reduces the rest time needed for the uterus to recharge and for the baby to receive adequate oxygenated blood flow. The lack of sufficient rest between contractions contributes to the feeling that the pain never fully subsides.
The Role of Labor Speed and Pain Perception
The compressed timeline of induced labor is a separate factor influencing the perception of pain and overall stress. Spontaneous labor often unfolds slowly over many hours, giving the birthing person time to mentally and physically adjust to progressive changes. Induction procedures, particularly those involving synthetic oxytocin, accelerate this process, forcing the body through the stages of labor more rapidly.
This acceleration leaves less opportunity for the body to release its own pain-reducing hormones and for the mind to process the increasing discomfort. The sensation of being quickly overwhelmed by intense contractions can increase anxiety and stress, which in turn lowers the person’s pain tolerance. While the total duration of experienced pain may be shorter in some induced labors, the intensity is concentrated into a smaller timeframe.
The state of the cervix before induction impacts the process, assessed using a Bishop score. A low Bishop score indicates the cervix is not yet “ripe,” often requiring preparatory steps like cervical ripening before synthetic oxytocin is started. These initial ripening procedures can take a long time, potentially several days, adding to the psychological burden and fatigue before active labor begins.
Managing Pain During Induced Labor
Given that induced contractions are often more intense and frequent from the start, a person undergoing induction frequently seeks pain relief earlier in the process compared to spontaneous labor. Induction does not restrict the available pain management options. Pharmacological options, such as epidural anesthesia, are highly effective in managing the severe pain associated with intense, rapid contractions.
An epidural, which delivers anesthetic medication into the lower spine, is often requested by those undergoing induction. The intervention is typically sought earlier than in spontaneous labor due to the immediate, high intensity of the contractions. Other systemic medications, such as opioid injections or inhaled nitrous oxide, are also available to help reduce the severity of the pain.
Non-pharmacological methods remain helpful, even with the accelerated pace of induced labor. Techniques like hydrotherapy, massage, breathing exercises, and position changes can be used before or alongside medical pain relief options. Early and open communication with the healthcare team about pain relief preferences is advisable, allowing for a proactive approach to managing the intense contractions typical of induced labor.