Water injections have demonstrated a dramatic pain relieving effect for many women with low back pain in labour. It involves the caregiver using small amounts of sterile water (about 0.1ml) injected into 4 strategic locations under the surface of the woman's skin (corresponding to the borders of the
sacrum, or lower back). The injections can also be used in the groin area.
Image 8-22 shows the 4 locations on the lower back where the water is injected.
This method needs to be administered by a caregiver experienced in this technique. The initial injections can slightly sting, but after this they can be effective in reducing the sensations of pain. After an hour or two the injections may need to be repeated.
Water injections are popular in Europe and the UK. They are less used in Australia. You will need to ask your caregiver about the possibility of using water injections for labour pain.
Information sources
Burns E, Blamey C, Ersser SJ, Lloyd AJ, Barnetson L. The use of aromatherapy in intrapartum midwifery practice an observational study. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 2000 Feb;6(1):33-4.
Enkin M, Keirse MJNC, Neilson J, Crowther C, Duley L, Hodnett E, Hofmeyr J. A guide to effective care in pregnancy and childbirth. 3rd Ed. 2000, Oxford University Press, Oxford.
Simkin, P. 1995. Reducing pain and enhancing progress in labour: a guide to nonpharmacologic methods for maternity caregivers. Birth, No: 22. pp161-171.
Smith CA, Collins CT, Cyna AM, Crowther CA. Complementary and alternative therapies for pain management in labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003521. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003521.pub2.