For many women in labor, the idea of self-pleasure is far from their minds amid the chaos of contractions. However, an Australian doula, named Sarah Matthews, advocates that engaging in personal stimulation can serve as a powerful natural remedy for pain relief.
In a recently shared blog post, Matthews recounts her experience of self-stimulation throughout a six-hour labor, describing how it helped alleviate discomfort and foster a sense of empowerment. After her first birth was heavily medicalized with an epidural, she sought a more natural approach for her second delivery. “I wanted a more enjoyable experience,” she explains.
Matthews discovered that techniques such as nipple stimulation and intimate touch could provide relief, but ultimately found clitoral stimulation to be the most effective during intense labor moments. She shares, “Masturbation was the most logical choice for me as I navigated through contractions. My partner even asked if I wanted to have sex, and while I couldn’t focus on that, it was clear what I needed. Clitoral stimulation shifted my attention inward, allowing me to connect with my body and regain some control over my sensations.”
While Matthews didn’t reach orgasm during her labor, she did experience significant pleasure, supported by her calming environment and self-exploration. “When I think back to that moment, I remember the warmth of water on my back and the comfort of my partner’s presence as I rode those waves of sensation. It wasn’t sexual orgasm, but it was pure pleasure. My natural pain-relief instincts were truly awakened, and I feel proud for embracing something that society often shames.”
While the concept of finding pleasure during labor may seem foreign to many, research supports its efficacy. Neuroscientist Barry R. Komisaruk found that clitoral stimulation can enhance pain thresholds and inhibit certain pain signals before they reach the nervous system. However, the most important aspect lies in a woman’s own instincts about her body. Every woman’s labor experience is unique, and coping strategies can vary widely. Some may prefer an epidural, while others might find relief through movement, vocalization, or even personal pleasure.
At the end of the day, women should feel empowered to embrace whatever methods they need to navigate labor and delivery. Whether it’s ice chips, an anesthesiologist, or personal stimulation, it’s about finding what works. For those interested in alternative approaches to conception, exploring options such as the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit can be beneficial. For further insights, wellness programs can provide guidance on this journey, and the Cleveland Clinic offers an excellent resource on pregnancy and IUI treatments.
Summary
Sarah Matthews, a doula, shares her experience of using self-stimulation for pain relief during her labor, highlighting its effectiveness supported by research. Each woman’s journey through labor is personal, and embracing diverse coping strategies is essential.