To Epidural or Not to Epidural…
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How is an epidural given?
Intravenous (IV) fluids will be started before active labor begins and prior to the procedure of placing the epidural. You can expect to receive 1-2 liters of IV fluids throughout labor and delivery.
An anesthesiologist, a physician who specializes in anesthesia, an obstetrician, or nurse-anesthetist will administer your epidural. You will be asked to arch your back and remain still while lying on your left side or sitting up. This position is vital for preventing problems and increasing the epidural effectiveness.
An antiseptic solution will be used to wipe the waistline area of your mid back to minimize the chance of infection. A small area on your back will be injected with a local anesthetic to numb it.
Then a needle will be inserted into the numbed area that surrounds the spinal cord in the lower back. A small tube or catheter is threaded through the needle into the epidural space.
The needle is carefully removed leaving the catheter in place so medication can be given through periodic injections or by continuous infusion.The catheter will be taped to your back to prevent it from slipping out.
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Comment by lindsay on Jan 26 2009 05:09:49:
Good info on the epidural, but the title is “To Epidural or Not To Epidural…” So what are the alternatives? This article is missing more than half the subject matter.
For mamas who are interested in natural childbirth (even if you think you can’t do it) I highly suggest reading the two books by Ina May Gaskin. Very informative and inspiring. Even I, the biggest wimp on Earth, successfully experienced natural childbirth out of a hospital setting. I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world! It is amazing what the human body can accomplish when one is fully prepared and open-minded.
cheers to all new mamas and babies!
Comment by Denise on Mar 17 2009 02:53:50:
take it like a real women and don’t get an epidural… I was 19 and decided to have a natural birth it was tough but worth it. almost all the moms I know that got an epidural have back problems now so i’m glad I didn’t get it…
Comment by Autumn on Mar 26 2009 09:18:14:
I had to have an epidural since I wa delivering twins.
Comment by Helene on May 23 2009 03:28:16:
it’s a matter of personal choice. i don’t feel any less like a mom for having had an epidural. good for you that you did the natural route but that is your choice – don’t talk down to others just because you have a higher threshold for pain. the real test of bein a real woman is how you are after the baby is born!
Comment by Philip Kushmaro on Mar 23 2013 03:59:36:
http://www.laboraide.com/article/543-epidural-alternatives-knowing-your-options