Epidurals are the most commonly used option to relieve labor pain. Is an epidural right for you? What are its benefits? Does it have any potential risks? Learn more in this article. (1)

Benefits of Epidural

The epidural is the most popular and effective way to manage labor pain. It allows you to experience childbirth with minimal pain while remaining awake and alert. (1)

Flexibility is a key benefit of epidurals. Even if you initially planned to not use any kind of anesthesia, you can request an epidural at any point of labor, as long as the baby is not about to be delivered. (6)

A 2014 study found some evidence that using an epidural might reduce the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) in some women. However, The data among studies are inconsistent, and more research is needed.

Epidurals are commonly used for vaginal childbirth but can also be used during C-sections, In addition to surgeries of the back or lower half of the body. (1)

Risks of Epidural

Epidurals are safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are small risks of side effects and complications. 

Potential side effects of the epidural include: (2)

• Temporary and mild drop in blood pressure: Making you feel light-headed or nauseous. You will be monitored closely to avoid this, and fluids or medications may be given if necessary.
• Temporary numbness in the lower half of the body: You might feel this for a few hours after childbirth, so you may need to stay in bed until the numbness wears off. It often affects only one side and varies in severity.
• Difficulty urinating: Temporary until the numbness wears off, which may require a urinary catheter.
• Severe, temporary headache: This rare condition affects fewer than 1% of women. Painkillers and ice packs on the head can provide relief and typically resolve within a few days.
• Nerve damage (extremely rare): It is usually temporary and returns to normal within weeks to months. The estimated occurrence is 1 in 1,000 to 10,000 births, with the likelihood of permanent damage being 1 in 24,000 to 50,000 births.

Myths about Epidural

Some myths about epidurals are false and can cause unnecessary anxiety. It's time to correct them and provide you with accurate information!

1. Epidural slows labor: Contrary to popular belief, epidurals do not significantly prolong labor. While a small reduction (20-30 minutes) in labor time has been observed in some studies, this difference is generally considered minimal and doesn't substantially impact the overall labor process. (6)
2. Epidurals increase the chances of a C-section: False! Epidurals do not make it more or less likely for you to have a cesarean section. Needing a C-section depends on medical factors, such as the size or position of the baby, or other medical reasons. (3)Although epidurals may slightly increase the need for assisted delivery tools, such as vacuum or forceps, studies show this to be associated with high doses of epidural medication. Currently, the standards for dosing are much lower, so the possibility of needing an assisted delivery is significantly reduced, and many women are able to deliver without instruments. (3)
3. Epidurals cause chronic back pain: False! There's no evidence linking epidurals to chronic back pain. As a matter of fact, some explanations for back pain after childbirth are: (1)(4)
   • Physical strain of pregnancy and childbirth.
   • Poor body posture.
   • Lifting and carrying the baby.
   • Lack of sleep.
   • Hormonal changes.

Who Shouldn't Get an Epidural?

While epidurals are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. You might not be a candidate for an epidural if you have the following: (5)

• Being on blood thinners.
• Low platelet count.
• Systemic, or local infection (at the injection site)
• Rapid labor progression that doesn't allow enough time for the procedure.
• Severe bleeding or circulatory shock.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does Getting an Epidural Hurt?

No, the epidural itself is not painful. Local anesthesia numbs the area before the epidural needle is inserted, just like the one you get from a dentist before receiving a filling. Most people describe feeling pressure with the first injection into your lower back rather than pain. but after that, you should not feel any pain. (6)

Does Labor Still Hurt if You Have an Epidural?

An epidural significantly reduces contractions pain, meaning contractions are still felt but they just won't hurt — you'll be able to push and participate in labor effectively. (6)

Do I Really Need An Epidural? 

The decision to have an epidural is entirely personal. Every woman's labor experience is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Before you make up your mind, talk with your doctor to be able to explain its benefits and risks and learn whether the technique is good for you. Remember, The goal is a healthy and happy outcome for both mother and baby. Epidurals can be a valuable tool in achieving this, but it's not the only option. (6)

Want to Know More About Epidurals?

Don't worry! Book an appointment with our top OB/GYN specialists at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital! Our doctors are here to answer all your inquiries including:

• Explain procedure.
• Discuss benefits.
• Discuss potential risks.
• Decision support.

References

1. Epidural - Benefits & Side Effects of Anesthesia During Labor, American Society of Anesthesiologists
2. Epidural, NHS
3. Practice Guidelines for Obstetric Anesthesia, American Society of Anesthesiologists
4. Postpartum Pelvic Bone Problems & Pelvic Pain After Childbirth, WebMD
5. Epidural: What It Is, Procedure, Risks & Side Effects, Cleveland Clinic‍
6. Epidurals During Childbirth: What Women Should Know, Yale Medicine