Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Why Some Women Feel Less Or No Pain During Childbirth?

Childbirth is also described as perhaps one of the most intense painful experiences a woman can undergo in her lifetime. From cultural accounts to personal testimonials shared among girlfriends and families, pain during childbirth is almost considered a universal anticipation. But then again, is the pain one expects during child delivery something that has to be distributed equally among every woman? That is not actually the case as some women will sail through birth with little to no pain. 

What distinguishes them? New studies have discovered genetic elements that could account for why some women feel less pain during childbirth than others, and the findings might have implications far beyond the obstetric ward.

Pain during labor is subjective and varies widely among women. While some women manage the process quite well, and even with an empowering attitude, others become intolerably painful and require the intervention of epidurals or any other form of anesthesia. 

Scientists and health professionals alike have long been interested in understanding this difference. Researchers have postulated for a long time that it is likely due to several reasons, such as cultural factors, psychological preparedness, and condition of the physical body. However, a breakthrough study has now revealed that there may be a genetic explanation behind these differences in pain perception during childbirth.

<h2>How a Genetic Variant Increases Pain Threshold</h2>

A key study led by Dr. Ewan St. John Smith of the University of Cambridge has identified a rare genetic variant that may explain why some women feel less pain during childbirth. The study, conducted in collaboration with clinicians at Addenbrooke Hospital in Cambridge, focused on women who had experienced normal births but reported little to no pain, often opting out of pain relief interventions like epidurals.

The researchers found that these women were significantly more likely to have a variant of a specific gene, named **KV6.4**. The variant effects the nervous system response to pain signals: it seems that this gene is closely related to the processing of discomfort by the body in childbirth. To research it further, the scientists used laboratory mice-whose nervous systems, by the way, are impressively similar to humans-to find out what happens in those mice with KV6.4 variant. 

They manipulated the nerves of the mice to express either the normal version of the gene or the variant found in the women who experienced less pain.

Results were quite illuminating. Those nerves that carried the KV6.4 variant were much less excitable, indicating that greater stimulation was required before the nerves could send electrical signals to the brain, signals that the brain interprets as pain. This thus meant that women carrying the <span>KV6.4 gene variant</span> may have a much higher pain threshold, making childbirth a less painful experience for them.

<h2>Genetic Evidence Supporting Less Need for Pain Relief in Childbirth</h2>

For validation of the hypothesis, the Cambridge team tested a group of women who gave birth without requesting any pain relief at their birth. The women were made to undergo a series of exercises that caused discomfort to them, which included applying heat and pressure on their arms and then telling them to plunge their hands in icy water. The women who had the KV6.4 gene variant were significantly more tolerant of pain than another group of women who needed to receive <span>pain relief during childbirth</span>. The results of these women were uniform in various types of pain, such as pressure pain and pain caused by cold exposure.

This finding indicates that the KV6.4 gene variant does not only affect pain perception in the context of labor but also could be responsible for a general increase in pain tolerance to different kinds of discomfort. According to Dr. St. John Smith, the gene almost acts like a "<span>natural epidural</span>," shielding these women from the full force of labor pain.

<h2>How Does this Impact Pain Management</h2>

The discovery of the KV6.4 gene variant opens new avenues for pain management, not only for women in labor but for chronic pain sufferers around the world. Chronic pain affects nearly half of the UK population, and many people living with pain report that current medications either do not work effectively or come with undesirable side effects. Knowing the manner in which the KV6.4 gene variant modulates pain signals might make it easier to develop better and more focused therapies for chronic pain.

In fact, the research conducted by the team from Cambridge is now considered to be a potential game-changer in pain management. The researchers are now focusing on pain sensitivity's genetic underpinnings, and hope to put forward with drugs that have the ability to mimic the effects of the KV6.4 variant, an area of new hope for those suffering with chronic pain conditions. According to Professor Frank Reimann, a co-author of the study, "We hope this may open avenues to the development of new drugs to manage pain."

<h2>Role of Genetics and Pain Sensitivity</h2>

This discovery also challenges the conventional understanding of pain and pain management. While earlier research has always focused on the external factors like psychological stress, previous trauma, and environmental influence on pain perception, this new genetic perspective puts a stamp of complexity on the biological nature through which we feel pain. This means that, for at least some women, the secret to less painful childbirth may not be in their mental or physical state but in their genes.

In addition, the study concurs with other research studies that were conducted on epidural use during labor. A study in 2018 showed that women who had epidurals during labor had a lower risk of postpartum depression. Epidurals are still a common intervention in managing labor pain, but the KV6.4 gene variant presents an exciting alternative that could change the way pain relief is approached in childbirth and beyond.

The discovery of the KV6.4 gene variant is a major breakthrough in understanding pain perception, especially in the context of childbirth. Not every woman may carry this rare gene variant, but those who do experience a substantially different level of pain during labor. This genetic knowledge does not only give a new view of the phenomenon of birth but also promises the development of better, more tailored pain management for a wide variety of conditions.

With continued research into pain genetics, the expectation is that these findings will eventually lead to new, more effective treatments for chronic pain sufferers, thus improving quality of life for millions of people worldwide. In the future, the KV6.4 gene and similar genetic factors may revolutionize the way we approach pain, offering more precise and targeted interventions for those in need. For now, however, women who give birth with little to no pain may have more than just mental fortitude on their side—they may have a genetic gift that could lead to new breakthroughs in the world of pain management.

<h2>Other Methods To Mange Pain During Childbirth</h2>Pain management during childbirth is a deeply personal choice, influenced by individual preferences, cultural beliefs, and medical guidance. While some women may naturally experience less pain due to genetic factors, many rely on other methods to alleviate discomfort during labor. Here are some common approaches:

<h3>1. <strong>Epidural Anesthesia</strong></h3>One of the most widely used medical pain relief methods, an epidural involves injecting anesthetic near the spinal nerves, significantly reducing pain while allowing the mother to remain awake and alert.

<h3>2. <strong>Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)</strong></h3>A safe and effective option, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask, helping to reduce anxiety and dull the perception of pain without numbing the body.

<h3>3. <strong>Opioids</strong></h3>Administered intravenously or via injection, opioids provide short-term pain relief. However, their use is closely monitored due to potential side effects on both mother and baby.

<h3>4. <strong>Breathing Techniques and Lamaze</strong></h3>Focusing on controlled breathing patterns can help women remain calm and better manage contractions. Lamaze classes often teach these techniques, empowering women to cope with labor more effectively.

<h3>5. <strong>Water Birth or Hydrotherapy</strong></h3>Soaking in warm water during labor can ease muscle tension, provide buoyancy, and reduce the intensity of contractions, offering a natural way to manage pain.

<h3>6. <strong>TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)</strong></h3>This non-invasive technique involves placing electrodes on the back to deliver mild electrical pulses, which can interfere with pain signals and provide relief during early labor.

<h3>7. <strong>Acupuncture and Acupressure</strong></h3>Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, these methods involve stimulating specific points on the body to promote relaxation and alleviate pain during labor.

<h3>8. <strong>Movement and Positioning</strong></h3>Staying active and changing positions during labor can help reduce pain by encouraging the baby to move into an optimal position for birth and by relieving pressure on certain areas.

<h3>9. <strong>Hypnobirthing</strong></h3>This method focuses on relaxation, visualization, and self-hypnosis techniques to help women approach labor with a calm and positive mindset, reducing fear and pain.

<h3>10. <strong>Emotional Support</strong></h3>The presence of a supportive partner, doula, or trusted family member can make a significant difference in pain perception, providing comfort and reassurance throughout the birthing process.

These methods, used individually or in combination, empower women to tailor their childbirth experience to their unique needs and preferences.

<em><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29239949/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Labor Analgesia as a Predictor for Reduced Postpartum Depression Scores: A Retrospective Observational Study</a>. Anesth Analg. 2018</em>

<a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107941" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">Human labour pain is influenced by the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv6.4 subunit. </a>Cell Reports. 2020

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Childbirth is also described as perhaps one of the most intense painful experiences a woman can undergo in her lifetime. From cultural accounts to personal testimonials shared among girlfriends and families, pain during childbirth is almost considered a universal anticipation. But then again, is the pain one expects during child delivery something that has to be distributed equally among every woman? That is not actually the case as some women will sail through birth with little to no pain. What distinguishes them? New studies have discovered genetic elements that could account for why some women feel less pain during childbirth than others, and the findings might have implications far beyond the obstetric ward.Pain during labor is subjective and varies widely among women. While some women manage the process quite well, and even with an empowering attitude, others become intolerably painful and require the intervention of epidurals or any other form of anesthesia. Scientists and health professionals alike have long been interested in understanding this difference. Researchers have postulated for a long time that it is likely due to several reasons, such as cultural factors, psychological preparedness, and condition of the physical body. However, a breakthrough study has now revealed that there may be a genetic explanation behind these differences in pain perception during childbirth.How a Genetic Variant Increases Pain ThresholdA key study led by Dr. Ewan St. John Smith of the University of Cambridge has identified a rare genetic variant that may explain why some women feel less pain during childbirth. The study, conducted in collaboration with clinicians at Addenbrooke Hospital in Cambridge, focused on women who had experienced normal births but reported little to no pain, often opting out of pain relief interventions like epidurals.The researchers found that these women were significantly more likely to have a variant of a specific gene, named **KV6.4**. The variant effects the nervous system response to pain signals: it seems that this gene is closely related to the processing of discomfort by the body in childbirth. To research it further, the scientists used laboratory mice-whose nervous systems, by the way, are impressively similar to humans-to find out what happens in those mice with KV6.4 variant. They manipulated the nerves of the mice to express either the normal version of the gene or the variant found in the women who experienced less pain.Results were quite illuminating. Those nerves that carried the KV6.4 variant were much less excitable, indicating that greater stimulation was required before the nerves could send electrical signals to the brain, signals that the brain interprets as pain. This thus meant that women carrying the KV6.4 gene variant may have a much higher pain threshold, making childbirth a less painful experience for them.Genetic Evidence Supporting Less Need for Pain Relief in ChildbirthFor validation of the hypothesis, the Cambridge team tested a group of women who gave birth without requesting any pain relief at their birth. The women were made to undergo a series of exercises that caused discomfort to them, which included applying heat and pressure on their arms and then telling them to plunge their hands in icy water. The women who had the KV6.4 gene variant were significantly more tolerant of pain than another group of women who needed to receive pain relief during childbirth. The results of these women were uniform in various types of pain, such as pressure pain and pain caused by cold exposure.This finding indicates that the KV6.4 gene variant does not only affect pain perception in the context of labor but also could be responsible for a general increase in pain tolerance to different kinds of discomfort. According to Dr. St. John Smith, the gene almost acts like a "natural epidural," shielding these women from the full force of labor pain.How Does this Impact Pain ManagementThe discovery of the KV6.4 gene variant opens new avenues for pain management, not only for women in labor but for chronic pain sufferers around the world. Chronic pain affects nearly half of the UK population, and many people living with pain report that current medications either do not work effectively or come with undesirable side effects. Knowing the manner in which the KV6.4 gene variant modulates pain signals might make it easier to develop better and more focused therapies for chronic pain.In fact, the research conducted by the team from Cambridge is now considered to be a potential game-changer in pain management. The researchers are now focusing on pain sensitivity's genetic underpinnings, and hope to put forward with drugs that have the ability to mimic the effects of the KV6.4 variant, an area of new hope for those suffering with chronic pain conditions. According to Professor Frank Reimann, a co-author of the study, "We hope this may open avenues to the development of new drugs to manage pain."Role of Genetics and Pain SensitivityThis discovery also challenges the conventional understanding of pain and pain management. While earlier research has always focused on the external factors like psychological stress, previous trauma, and environmental influence on pain perception, this new genetic perspective puts a stamp of complexity on the biological nature through which we feel pain. This means that, for at least some women, the secret to less painful childbirth may not be in their mental or physical state but in their genes.In addition, the study concurs with other research studies that were conducted on epidural use during labor. A study in 2018 showed that women who had epidurals during labor had a lower risk of postpartum depression. Epidurals are still a common intervention in managing labor pain, but the KV6.4 gene variant presents an exciting alternative that could change the way pain relief is approached in childbirth and beyond.The discovery of the KV6.4 gene variant is a major breakthrough in understanding pain perception, especially in the context of childbirth. Not every woman may carry this rare gene variant, but those who do experience a substantially different level of pain during labor. This genetic knowledge does not only give a new view of the phenomenon of birth but also promises the development of better, more tailored pain management for a wide variety of conditions.With continued research into pain genetics, the expectation is that these findings will eventually lead to new, more effective treatments for chronic pain sufferers, thus improving quality of life for millions of people worldwide. In the future, the KV6.4 gene and similar genetic factors may revolutionize the way we approach pain, offering more precise and targeted interventions for those in need. For now, however, women who give birth with little to no pain may have more than just mental fortitude on their side—they may have a genetic gift that could lead to new breakthroughs in the world of pain management.Other Methods To Mange Pain During ChildbirthPain management during childbirth is a deeply personal choice, influenced by individual preferences, cultural beliefs, and medical guidance. While some women may naturally experience less pain due to genetic factors, many rely on other methods to alleviate discomfort during labor. Here are some common approaches:1. Epidural AnesthesiaOne of the most widely used medical pain relief methods, an epidural involves injecting anesthetic near the spinal nerves, significantly reducing pain while allowing the mother to remain awake and alert.2. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)A safe and effective option, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask, helping to reduce anxiety and dull the perception of pain without numbing the body.3. OpioidsAdministered intravenously or via injection, opioids provide short-term pain relief. However, their use is closely monitored due to potential side effects on both mother and baby.4. Breathing Techniques and LamazeFocusing on controlled breathing patterns can help women remain calm and better manage contractions. Lamaze classes often teach these techniques, empowering women to cope with labor more effectively.5. Water Birth or HydrotherapySoaking in warm water during labor can ease muscle tension, provide buoyancy, and reduce the intensity of contractions, offering a natural way to manage pain.6. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)This non-invasive technique involves placing electrodes on the back to deliver mild electrical pulses, which can interfere with pain signals and provide relief during early labor.7. Acupuncture and AcupressureRooted in traditional Chinese medicine, these methods involve stimulating specific points on the body to promote relaxation and alleviate pain during labor.8. Movement and PositioningStaying active and changing positions during labor can help reduce pain by encouraging the baby to move into an optimal position for birth and by relieving pressure on certain areas.9. HypnobirthingThis method focuses on relaxation, visualization, and self-hypnosis techniques to help women approach labor with a calm and positive mindset, reducing fear and pain.10. Emotional SupportThe presence of a supportive partner, doula, or trusted family member can make a significant difference in pain perception, providing comfort and reassurance throughout the birthing process.These methods, used individually or in combination, empower women to tailor their childbirth experience to their unique needs and preferences.Labor Analgesia as a Predictor for Reduced Postpartum Depression Scores: A Retrospective Observational Study. Anesth Analg. 2018Human labour pain is influenced by the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv6.4 subunit. Cell Reports. 2020