Pros and Cons of An Epidural

Giving birth can be a scary concept, and the pain can be something we all can dread. Depending on the goals you have for your birth, an epidural is one option to help you when it comes to managing pain. Today we will discuss what it is, if it aligns with your birth plan goals, and the pros and cons for receiving it. (American Society of Anesthesiologists). It is one of the most common interventions to turn to, between 60% to 85% of laboring mothers have it administered to them. (The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth, page 296).

What is an Epidural?

An epidural is an anesthetic as a type of intervention for pain relief during labor. It is administered by inserting a tiny needle and a tiny tube (the catheter) into the lower part of the back. The needle is removed leaving in place the catheter to help administer the medication through the tube. The medication can be increased or decreased to your need and for how long you would like to have it. You can turn to an epidural in any stage of your labor, but always consult with your provider if an epidural is best for you.

What is Your Overall Goal?

Now it depends if receiving an epidural aligns with your goals. If you are wanting an unmedicated birth, water is a great way to receive pain relief (check out the episode “Water: Nature’s Epidural” for more Information). But if you plan on or don’t mind having a medicated birth, an epidural may be a great option to help you with pain relief. Now as you review your birth plan, here are some pros and cons to review and see if having an epidural aligns with your goals for your birth.

Pros of Having an Epidural

  • It can help release tension when you have a lot of fear concerning birth
  • It can help relax mama
  • It can help you be alert throughout the process
  • It can help you when you have been exhausted from a long labor, and can help you rest and maybe even sleep
  • Relief from physical pain in the lower half of your body
  • If you are in need of a C-section, it can help num your body to perform the surgery

Cons of Having an Epidural

  • It can interrupt the natural cascade of labor-related hormones.
  • It can stop you from having efficient contractions, due to suppression of the oxytocin. (This is when they add Pitocin to help induce contractions).
  • It can lead you to being too numb to push your baby out.
  • You are confined to the bed and are not allowed to get up and move around.
  • Can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
  • You can have negative side effects such as difficulty urinating and walking, headaches, and a sore back.
  • It can lead the baby to be become more lethargic, which can can make it more difficult with delivery.
  • It may lead to babies struggling to latch when breastfeeding.
  • There’s a chance it can also cause respiratory depression or decreased fetal heart rate in newborns.

When Should I Not Use an Epidural?

  • If you use blood thinners
  • have a low platelet count
  • Are hemorrhaging or in shock
  • Have an infection on or in your back
  • Have a blood infection
  • If you are not at least 4 cm dilated
  • If labor is moving too fast and there isn’t enough time to administer it

(All sourced from American Pregnancy Association)

Final Thoughts

Now that you have briefly reviewed the pros and cons of having an epidural, it is important to see guidance from your care provider if having an epidural is safe and useful for you and baby. Ultimately, it is your decision on what is best for you and your baby! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Here at the Utah Birth Place, we want to help you find the best midwife and doula to help you reach that goal. Fill our questionnaire today and we will lead you to the best care provider.

References

Related Blog Articles

Share this post with your friends