Why is epidural for labour

If the headache persists, a blood patch is performed, which involves injecting some of your blood into the epidural space to relieve the headache. Though very rare, permanent nerve damage is possible if the spinal cord is damaged by the needle or catheter, or by bleeding or infection in the epidural area. Anesthesiologists undergo extensive training and the risk of permanent damage is very low.

Some women find pushing more difficult with an epidural. This can increase your chance of needing interventions, such as forceps, medication, or a C-section. Research shows that perineal tears are more common in women who have epidurals. Other factors that increase your risk for perineal tear include:. You may experience some numbness in your lower half for a few hours after giving birth. Because of this, you may need to stay in bed until the numbness wears off.

Having an epidural also increases your chances of needing a urinary catheter to empty your bladder. This is only temporary. The urinary catheter can be removed once your numbness has resolved. Some evidence suggests that babies whose birth mothers have an epidural are more likely to develop respiratory distress immediately after birth.

Though other studies have found no evidence of epidural usage increase risk for respiratory distress in babies. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about the safety of epidural for your baby before you begin labor. Like with any medical procedures, there are pros and cons to consider. There are a number of factors that can determine what type of birth might be best for you. Several factors can impact the level of pain you experience during delivery and childbirth.

These factors may determine what, if any, medication is recommended:. It may be a good idea to come up with two birth plans. One plan can be your optimal plan. When epidurals are used Epidurals can be used: during labour and childbirth , including caesareans during some types of surgery after some types of surgery Steroid medicine can also be given with an epidural injection, to treat pain in your back or leg that's caused by sciatica or a slipped prolapsed disc.

Preparing for an epidural If you have any concerns or questions about having an epidural, discuss these with your doctor. You may be given specific advice about eating, drinking and medicines before the epidural.

How an epidural is given Epidurals are given by a specialist doctor called an anaesthetist. A drip will be placed in your arm so you can be given fluids while you're having the epidural. You'll be asked to sit down and lean forwards, or lie on your side with your knees up close your chest. You'll be given an injection of local anaesthetic to numb the skin where the epidural will be inserted. A needle is used to insert a fine plastic tube called an epidural catheter into your back spine near the nerves that carry pain messages to your brain.

The needle is then removed, leaving just the catheter in your spine. The epidural provides continued pain relief after the spinal block wears off. Physician anesthesiologists are committed to patient safety and high-quality care, and have the necessary knowledge to understand and treat the entire human body.

Skip to content. How and when is an epidural for labor pain administered? Does it hurt when the epidural is administered? What does an epidural do? How long does the pain relief last? Can an epidural slow labor or lead to a cesarean delivery C-section? Can epidurals harm the baby? Are there risks and side effects?

No matter the decision, our goal is to give the mother and family the best delivery experience they can have. Our patients are provided with many options for a safe birthing experience and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Your doctor can also direct you to appropriate birthing classes and additional information. Skip to content Due to CoVid19, Telemedicine appointments are now available.

Learn more. What is an epidural? However, there are some side effects that mothers may experience: Low blood pressure Cold chills or shivering A headache Nausea When can you get an epidural? Do epidurals hurt? Can you feel contractions with an epidural?