Pros and cons of epidural anesthesia

Epidural anesthesia has spread among women who are going to give birth in recent years in our country. It is estimated that about 90% of women request it. If you are pregnant, it is important that you have as much information as possible to make the decision that best suits you. Let's see what are the pros and cons of epidural anesthesia.

What is epidural anesthesia?

It consists of a local anesthetic that interrupts the nerve transmission of pain sensation. Through a lumbar puncture, a local anesthetic is introduced with a catheter to apply anesthesia. To be able to put on, it is necessary that the birthing process has already begun, and we have a dilation of between 3-4 centimeters minimum and up to 8 centimeters maximum. From 8 centimeters there are more risks than benefits, which is why it is not indicated for further dilation. It is the anesthesiologist who assesses whether and if the mother is ready.

It is very common among women who are going to give birth since allows a painless delivery. It lasts for approximately 2 hours, which can be extended if the labor is lengthened or reduced if desired when the birth is approaching.

Who can you put it on?

To future mothers who are of legal age, who have given their consent and who do not have any contraindications. It cannot be put in if there is a skin infection in the puncture site (so as not to drag her inside), some heart disease and brain disorders, severe bleeding or clotting disorders.

What are the pros of epidural anesthesia?

Its benefits are very tempting when deciding whether or not to use epidural anesthesia during labor. Let's see what they are.

• Relieves labor pains almost completely by being conscious at all times and without affecting neither the mother nor the baby.
• By not bearing the pain, you are more rested by the time the baby arrives.
• Our allows you to actively participate during the delivery.
• Se eliminate anxiety and fear of the mother in anticipation of the pain of childbirth.
• Eliminate the strain on your heart during labor, so you can breathe better. This improves the oxygen supply to your baby.

What are the cons of epidural anesthesia?

Like all anesthesia, it has its risks, especially if it is not administered well. Let's see what its disadvantages are.

• It will be a medically manipulated delivery from the beginning.
• May cause drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness and nausea, and the baby's heart rate to slow. That is why you have to monitor both very well.
• By not feeling the contractions reduces the mother's ability to push. You will have to be guided with the midwife to know when to do it.
• El labor tends to slow down with epidural anesthesia.
• Increase the need to use instruments for delivery such as forceps, spatulas or suction cups.

Possible side effects

Epidural anesthesia is quite safe and easy to apply. But like everything medically it can have some side effects. Let's see what you can be:

• Increase the risk of low back pain and sometimes also leg cramps, itching and tremors.
• May cause severe headaches and chills as a side effect. It is advisable to drink a lot of water and stay lying down as long as possible.
• Possible pain in the area of ​​the puncture.
• Puncture infection. It is very rare that it occurs, since the needle must be properly disinfected.
• Can affect your bladder, and they have to put a catheter on you.

You already have all the information you need to be able to decide whether or not you want epidural anesthesia administered during labor. They will ask you during pregnancy and the anesthesiologist will do the appropriate tests to see if it is possible to put it on. Until the time of delivery arrives, it will not be known if they will be able to put it on or not. It will depend on many factors.

Because remember ... if you have any questions, consult your doctor.