Vidisha Srivastava, known for her role as Anita Vibhuti Narayan Mishra, also known as Gori Mem, in the popular sitcom *Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai*, has won the hearts of many with her remarkable acting skills. Despite being a replacement, Vidisha has managed to captivate the audience. Her journey took a significant turn when she became pregnant just ten months after joining the show. Amazingly, she returned to work within two months after delivering her baby. In a recent conversation with ETimes, Vidisha shared the harrowing experience of her childbirth, providing a glimpse into the intense labour pain she endured.
Vidisha Srivastava’s Childbirth Experience
During her interview, Vidisha Srivastava recounted the excruciating pain she experienced during childbirth. Determined to have a normal delivery instead of opting for a C-section, she endured 21 hours of labour. When her daughter was finally born, the pain had numbed her to the point where she couldn’t fully embrace the moment. Reflecting on the experience, Vidisha stated, “I was in extreme pain and completely numb. When my daughter was handed over to me, I could not feel that moment because I was in so much pain. I still remember the moment but not the feeling.”
Understanding Labor Pain
Labour pain is primarily caused by contractions of the uterus muscles and the pressure on the cervix. This pain is often described as intense cramping in the abdomen, groin, and back, sometimes extending to the sides or thighs. Additional pain sources during labour include pressure from the baby’s head on the bladder and bowels and the stretching of the birth canal.
The intensity of labour pain varies significantly among women and even from one pregnancy to another. The continuous nature of contractions, with decreasing intervals for rest as labour progresses, often makes the pain challenging to endure.
Preparing for Labor
Preparation can play a crucial role in managing labour pain. Regular, moderate exercise approved by a healthcare provider can strengthen muscles and improve endurance, which is beneficial during labour. It’s important not to overexert, especially during pregnancy. Consulting with a doctor about a safe exercise routine is essential.
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Attending childbirth classes can also be helpful. These classes teach various relaxation and breathing techniques that can increase comfort during labour, although they might not eliminate pain entirely. Common non-medical pain management methods include:
- Breathing Techniques: Deep or rhythmic breathing can help manage pain.
- Physical Activities: Walking, yoga, or using a birthing ball can provide relief.
- Thermal Therapies: Applying heat or cold to painful areas can ease discomfort.
- Sensory Therapies: Aromatherapy, massage, or listening to music can distract from pain.
- Mindfulness Techniques: Hypnosis, meditation, and other relaxation strategies can reduce pain perception.
- Support Systems: Having a companion or doula for support can significantly improve the labour experience.
Medical Pain Relief Options
Many women opt for a combination of relaxation techniques and medical pain relief. The choice of pain relief varies based on individual preferences and medical advice. Here are some common options:
- Analgesics: These are pain-relieving medicines given through injection into a muscle or vein. They help manage pain without causing numbness or affecting muscle movement.
- Nitrous Oxide: Known as laughing gas, this inhaled medicine helps reduce anxiety and makes coping with contractions easier.
- Epidurals: As per Dr Suhasini Inamdar, consultant obstetrician and Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Bangalore, epidurals involve administering pain relief medication through a catheter inserted into the epidural space near the spinal cord. They effectively reduce or block pain from the waist down.
- Spinals: Similar to epidurals, spinals involve a single injection into the spinal fluid, providing quick pain relief, often used for C-sections.
- Local Anesthesia: Used for numbing a specific area, such as during an episiotomy or vaginal tear repair.
- General Anesthesia: Typically used in emergency situations, this method involves making the patient unconscious to eliminate pain sensation.
Bottomline
Vidisha Srivastava’s experience sheds light on the reality of labour pain and the resilience required during childbirth. Her story underscores the importance of preparation, support, and understanding the various pain management options available. Whether choosing natural methods or medical interventions, the goal is to ensure a safe and as comfortable as possible childbirth experience. Vidisha’s journey is a testament to the strength and determination of women as they bring new life into the world.