Epidural Block
An epidural block is a common form of pain relief used during labor and delivery. With an epidural block, pain medication is administered through a catheter that is placed into the lower back (epidural space), near the spinal cord. By using a catheter, the physician controls the amount of medication the patient receives. Medication is usually adjusted at certain times during labor, especially during delivery. An epidural block usually requires about 20 minutes to take effect.
An epidural block minimizes or eliminates pain in the lower area of the body. Even with medications that cause loss of feeling, the patent remains awake and alert. A doctor often uses a combination of pain relieving medications that include analgesics, which relieve pain without restricting muscle movement, and anesthetics, which block all feeling, including pain.
Benefits of an Epidural Block
An epidural block allows the mother to be awake and alert with minimal pain during labor and childbirth. It does not slow labor, and can be used continuously throughout.
Risks of an Epidural Block
In some cases, an epidural block is more effective on one side of the body more than the other. Additional risks of an epidural block for the mother include the following:
- Drop in blood pressure
- Severe headache
- Shivering
- Difficulty breathing if anesthesia affects the chest wall
If the mother's blood pressure drops significantly, it can affect the fetus's heartbeat. And, in some cases, the mother may need a catheter inserted in her bladder if the epidural block has affected her ability to urinate.
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