Pros and cons of getting an epidural

Being in labor is extremely painful! Getting an epidural is a way to relieve some of the pain and discomfort during childbirth. According to the American Pregnancy Association, more than half of all women giving birth at hospitals choose to get this medication during labor. Despite the potential for an easier birth, many women still choose to have a natural birth. While the benefits of an epidural are immense, there are some risks involved.

The primary reason that women choose to get this form of anesthesia is to reduce pain. Imagine being in labor for 8, 9, or even 20 hours! Anesthesia may come in very handy to relieve exhaustion and physical strain. In cases where a cesarean section may be necessary, an epidural can be used to block pain in the lower part of the body, allowing for a mother to remain awake during delivery.

Getting this medication is a relatively seamless experience, although every mother’s individual case depends on the skill of the administrator. After the area has been disinfected and numbed, a shot is injected into the lower back. A catheter is then put and left in place to facilitate the flow of medication. A combination of narcotics and anesthesia are injected into the body to ease pain and discomfort during labor.

So what are the risks involved? Is it really safe to use anesthesia during childbirth? The basic give and take of getting an epidural is more comfort for less control. There is less of that unbearable pain, but with reduced muscle reaction and strength, the length of labor may increase and pushing may be more difficult than it would be without medication. The baby may also be affected, resulting in heart rate fluctuations and respiratory changes. This can lead to the need for more interventions such as vacuum extraction, a cesarean delivery, or the use of the drug Pitocin. According to a report in the Canadian Journal of Anesthesia, the four classic side effects of getting an epidural are itching, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, and respiratory depression. Blood pressure can drop suddenly. Some women experience headaches, soreness, or shivering. There is a very small risk of permanent nerve damage.

Today many women are getting an epidural with little or no problems. When complications during labor do occur, it is possible that this medication will have to be used to numb part of the body for a C-section. As wonderful as it is that women have this option, it is not a perfect option. It is a drug. There are side effects and there is a risk. Know what the pros and cons are, make your decision about what type of birth you want, and be flexible. Childbirth can be remarkably short, incredibly long, free of complications, or full of worries. With or without medication, it is nothing less than amazing.