HE BIG HAIRY GORILLA OF
PAIN RELIEF
The Epidrural can only be given in the Delivery Suite by an anaesthetist.
The epidural is very effective but carries lots of side effects.
It can make your blood pressure drop so you need IV fluids to counter that. It can slow labour so you may need a drip to speed up your contractions. It may make it difficult for you to push effectively and therefore lead to an instrumental delivery. You will need to be continuously monitored. Your mobility will be affected. BUT…it works.
A fine catheter is inserted into the epidural space between the vertebrae in your back. Then a drug is passed through which blocks pain and sensation from the abdomen down. It can be topped up and is also used in a slightly different form for most caesareans.
Most women will find that if they have a straightforward labour and are well supported they will cope with self help or gas and air. If you have a more complex or long labour you may well want to consider an epidural.
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THE EPIDURAL
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