Epidural: Advantages, Disadvantages & Risks

It’s a world-known fact that delivering a baby can be extremely painful. For that reason, many pregnant women opt for an epidural injection pregnancy. In this article, we will understand what is the epidural meaning in pregnancy, its advantages and disadvantages and some other pain management options.

What is an epidural?

An epidural helps to block nerve signals such as the ones responsible for feelings of pain from the lower part of the spine. Epidural during pregnancy is usually administered through a catheter which is run through a large needle inserted into the area surrounding the spinal cord. The catheter will remain in place throughout the labour and delivery so that the medication can be continued.

What advantages does an epidural offer?

Here are some pros of having an epidural injection pregnancy:

1. Pain relief during delivery

Epidural is among the most effective pain relief methods during delivery and childbirth. Additionally, it has minimal to no side effects for both the mother and her baby. Epidural during pregnancy begins to work within 10-20 minutes and women who are given an epidural feel little to no pain throughout the childbirth process.

2. Allows the mother to rest

An epidural helps to provide relief from labour pains which allows the mother to rest, especially if she has a long labour. Getting time to rest and relax and feeling minimal pain can also result in a more positive birthing experience.

3. Take an active part in birthing

Whether it’s a normal delivery or a C-section, an epidural during pregnancy allows the mother to stay alert and take an active part in the birthing process. The mother can stay awake throughout the whole procedure without feeling much pain.

4. May help reduce postpartum depression

According to some studies, women who used an epidural injection pregnancy had a lower risk of postpartum depression. While there may not be strong scientific claims to support the findings, having a pain management plan in place may indeed reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

5. Available anytime during labour

Even if using an epidural during pregnancy is not a woman’s original plan, it’s available to her anytime the need arises. What’s more, it is available to the pregnant woman throughout the delivery process.

What are the disadvantages of having an epidural?

Now that you’re familiar with the advantages of epidural injection pregnancy, it’s important to consider its disadvantages as well:

1. May cause low BP

An epidural may cause a sudden drop in the mother’s blood pressure and she may need oxygen, fluids and medication. However, the mother’s blood pressure is monitored throughout the delivery and doctors ensure there is adequate blood flow to the baby.

2. Mother may experience some side-effects

It’s possible that the mother may experience certain side effects like fever, shivering or itchiness. Once the epidural is removed, women may also experience dizziness, nausea, back pain and soreness. Around 1 per cent of women also experience a severe headache.

3. May make pushing harder

Some women after being given an epidural for normal delivery may find it harder to push the baby. This can increase their chance of needing medical interventions such as forceps, medication or a C-section.

4. Increased risk of perineal tear

According to research, women who are given epidural injection pregnancy have a higher risk of perineal tears. Some other factors that may increase the risk of perineal tears include labour induction, episiotomy and high baby weight.

5. Numbness in the lower half

Women who are given an epidural during pregnancy may experience some numbness in their lower half for a few hours after childbirth. Because of this they may need to stay in bed until the numbness goes away.

6. Mother may experience trouble urinating

Until the numbness has resolved, the mother may be put on a urinary catheter to empty her bladder. However, it’s only temporary.

7. Chances of risk in baby experiencing respiratory distress

According to some research, babies whose mothers are given an epidural during pregnancy are more likely to experience respiratory distress immediately after birth. However, there’s little scientific evidence to support that.

Do "natural" deliveries benefit the mother and the child more?

Over 70 per cent of women use an epidural during pregnancy and childbirth but that doesn’t necessarily make it the right choice for everyone. You must consider all the pros and cons and analyse your unique situation. Although natural deliveries are the most recommended, the best birthing method varies from family to family. The most beneficial method for the mother and child is the one that keeps them safe.

Additional pain management options

While an epidural is a popular pain relief method, there are some other pain management options that you can discuss with your doctor:

1. Opioids

Opioids or narcotics are pain medications normally given through an injection or an IV. While they may not be as effective as epidural injection pregnancy, they make the pain bearable without causing any numbness. Opioids are not given right before delivery because they can slow the baby’s breathing and heart rate.

2. Pudendal block

A pudendal block is a numbing medication injected into the vagina and the pudendal nerve just before the baby’s head comes out. It can provide some pain relief while allowing the mother to remain alert and push. It doesn’t have any known risks to the mother or her baby.

3. Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide commonly known as laughing gas is an inhaled analgesic administered through a handheld mask. It begins to work within a minute and can be used constantly or as needed during labour. It doesn’t offer absolute pain relief and must be inhaled 30 seconds before a contraction.

4. Natural remedies

There are some natural remedies that can be used alone or in combination with other pain relief medications. These include massage, heat or cold compresses on the lower back, warm baths or showers, using a labour ball and finding comfortable positions like crouching, standing or walking.

Is an epidural the best option for you?

An epidural injection pregnancy is one of the safest and most effective pain relief methods used during labour. However, the decision to use it is completely your choice. You must weigh the pros and cons of using an epidural, analyse your unique, personal situation and discuss it with your doctor.