by Debbie Kleinheider

Epidural Questions & Answers – the good, the bad, and the not that bad after all!

Whenever people talk about their labor and childbirth experiences, pain control is right at the top of the list. Some women loved having the epidural; others hated it. Getting the right information and knowing what to expect is very important in making this decision. Here are some of the more frequently asked questions about getting an epidural.

Epidural Question #1:

Does having an epidural prolong my labor?

A: Sometimes. Epidurals given too early can slow labor and sometimes even stop it. It is best to be in full, active labor (about 4-4.5cm of cervical dilation) before initiating epidural anesthesia. By the same token, epidurals given later, like around 6-6.5 cm dilation, can speed things up because they help the surrounding pelvic muscles relax and also help mom relax.

Epidural Question #2:

Should I get an epidural during labor?

A: This is a question only you can answer. Anesthesia is not required for all births. All choices have consequences and weighing the epidural risks versus the benefits of receiving an epidural, requires all the information you can find. The choice is yours. Just remember 2 things:

1. no birth plan is written in stone so you can change your mind whatever you decide

2. no one should ever get to tell you ‘You did it wrong’. This is your informed decision to make.

Epidural Question #3

Will labor and delivery hurt even with an epidural?

A: Ideally, once the epidural is placed and the medication takes effect (sometimes 20 minutes for full results), you should only feel pressure but not pain. There is a big difference between pain and pressure. Sometimes, however, the pressure can be quite intense, as with pushing. Still, some moms don’t feel any pressure at all.

Epidural Question #4

I am against receiving an epidural. How can I manage my labor without it?

A: Remember, nearly half of all births in the United States are unmedicated! These tools will help you reach your goal:

1. Breathing keeps the muscles oxygenated and reduces cramping and pain, as well as keeps oxygen flowing to baby

2. Massage and acupressure also keep muscles moving and aids in relaxation.

3. Cool compresses to the face and wrists helps modulate ‘hot flashes’ and aids in relaxation, too.

4. Movement and positioning keep mom more comfortable and focused. This also maintains blood flow to the body and helps baby turn and descend.

5. Sound will be very beneficial. Music, supportive voices, your own ‘birth song’ (your own sounds that you make while laboring and delivering – each mom’s song is unique!) Your support person will be a huge help in your labor. That voice will be whom you hear over the din of a labor room. That voice will keep you anchored.

6. Find a good childbirth class. Attend together, practice together. You can do this!

Other Articles you may be interested in:

Epidural Side Effects: Just the Facts

Fetal Development Week by Week

Childbirth Classes: Why you need them EVEN if you are having an epidural.

About the Author:

Debbie Kleinheider, Neonatal and Pediatric nurse, Childbirth Educator, labor and postpartum doula, mother of six, and grandmother of 4 (and growing). She writes from her vast experiences and extensive knowledge on the subject of children.