Epidural anesthesia is the most popular way of pain relief during labor. It is a regional anesthesia which blocks pain in a specific body region. The nerve impulses from the lower spinal segments are blocked which results in decreased sensation in the lower half of the body.
What is the goal of an epidural anesthesia?
To provide analgesia or pain relief during labor
Types of epidurals anesthesia
Regular Epidural
Uses anesthesia such as bupivacaine or lidocaine which is injected through a catheter into subarachnoid space, and this catheter remains in place, so additional shots can be given throughout labor.
Combined Spinal-Epidural or “Walking Epidural”
Uses a combination of narcotic like fentanyl (which dulls pain) with a lower dose of anesthesia (which blocks all sensation in one part of the body), leaving your legs less numb and some women may able move around and get out of bed. However, narcotics could cause dizziness to the mother and sleepiness to the baby.
How it epidural anesthesia administered?
– An anesthetist normally administers an epidural anesthesia.
– You will be asked to sit down and lean forwards or to arch your back and remain still while lying on your left side.
** Correct positioning is vital to prevent problems and to increase the efficiency of the epidural injection.
– Local injection of anesthetic is given to anesthetized the skin where the epidural is to be administered.
– The needle is used to insert an epidural catheter between the bones of your back and then the needle is removed, leaving the catheter in place. There is mild discomfort when the epidural needle is positioned and the catheter is inserted.
The complete effect of the pain relief drug normally takes about 20-30 minutes. Your chest, tummy, and legs may feel numb while the epidural is being used, and your legs may not feel as strong as normal.
What are the Benefits?
– You can rest if your experience prolonged labor
– Reduced childbirth discomfort
-If a cesarean section is considered for delivery, an epidural anesthesia will allow you to remain conscious and also provide effective pain relief during recovery.
– Epidural can help you deal with exhaustion, irritability, and fatigue
What are the Side Effects?
– Hypotension (most common)
– Urinary retention
– Severe headache due to spinal fluid leakage
– Backache (women who used other painkillers)
