EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EPIDURAL


Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EPIDURALDr Claude Allouche, gynecologistAhuza Clinic, Raanana058 726 02 64
Ahuza Clinic, Raanana
058 726 02 64

What is an Epidural?

An epidural is a widely used method of anesthesia to relieve pain during childbirth. It involves the administration of regional anesthesia into the epidural space, just outside the membrane surrounding the spinal cord. An anesthesiologist inserts a small tube (catheter) into this space to deliver medication that alleviates pain.

Benefits of an Epidural

  • Effective in pain relief during childbirth.
  • Helps reduce anxiety, allowing the mother to focus on labor.
  • Can lower blood pressure, particularly beneficial for women with preeclampsia.

Disadvantages of an Epidural

  • May cause a drop in blood pressure and reduced heart rate in the mother, which can affect the fetus.
  • Can prolong the active phase of labor.
  • Makes pushing difficult during the second stage of labor.
  • Some women experience headaches afterward.

Epidural Procedure

The anesthesiologist cleans and disinfects the area before inserting a small catheter into the epidural space of the spine. Medication is delivered through the catheter to relieve pain. Both the mother and the fetus are monitored continuously during the procedure.

Risks Associated with an Epidural

Although complications are rare, potential risks include:

  • Drop in blood pressure
  • Reduction in the mother’s heart rate
  • Local infection

Rare but more serious complications include nerve damage, bleeding, allergic reactions, or paralysis. However, these are extremely uncommon.