Which tools and resources does Hilary Erickson recommend for managing labor pain effectively?

Hilary Erickson suggests a variety of tools and resources for managing labor pain. These include:

• Anesthetics: Epidurals and analgesics can help numb the area so you feel less pain.
• Positioning: Changing your position can help manage the pain.
• Heat: Using heating pads can provide relief.
• Breathing techniques: Controlled breathing can help manage pain.
• Hypnosis: Some people find hypnosis helpful for pain management.
• Education: Knowing what to expect can lessen your fear and anxiety, which can help manage pain.
• IV Pain Medications: Medications like Stadol or Fentanyl can take the edge off the pain.
• Local Anesthetic: Numbing medicine can be injected around your perineum as the baby comes out to help with any tearing that happens in that area.
• Nitrous Oxide: This can take the "edge" off the pain and is becoming more popular in the United States.

Hilary also recommends staying in your own space as long as possible if you don't plan to go the medical route. She suggests asking your doctor how long you could labor at home safely.