You’ve made it through cravings, baby kicks, and endless doctor visits—now the day is near to hear your baby’s voice. As labor approaches, one of the most common questions expecting moms ask is: “Will I need an epidural?” If the idea of childbirth has you picturing pain relief in shining armor, then an epidural injection might be just that.
This popular pain management option has helped millions of women navigate labor with a bit more calm and a lot less discomfort.
But how does it really work? Is it safe? And what should you expect? Let’s walk through the world of epidurals and uncover epidural injection for pregnancy.
What is Epidural Anaesthesia?
Epidural anaesthesia is pain-free anaesthesia. It is given to block a sensation in a region of your body so you won’t feel anything. It is usually given in the following circumstances:
- During Labour, an epidural for normal delivery is given
- A procedure in the lower part of your body (like hip or leg operation)
- Some procedures like Caesarean operation
This anaesthetic medication is injected in your lower back by injection. It blocks the pain signals from traveling to your brain. But you remain awake and conscious.
How Does an Epidural Function?
There’s an extremely small area in your lower back which is called the epidural space. That’s where the medication is given. The epidural injection prevents the nerves from passing on pain signals to your brain.
Therefore, you can expect pressure or feeling but not stinging pain when you get an epidural.
The Procedure: Step by Step
Now that the epidural meaning is clear, let us take a look at how is an epidural given:
1. Preparation
When it comes to epidural injection for pregnancy you may be asked to lie on your side. You might also be requested to arch such that you resemble a cat. This aids the doctor to find the correct spot.
2. Cleaning
Your back will be swabbed with a cold antiseptic solution by the doctor or nurse to sterilise it.
3. Numbing of the Skin
You are initially administered a tiny injection to numb your skin. It will pinch or sting for a moment.
4. Placement of the Epidural Needle
The doctor then inserts a special needle to locate the epidural space. It will not sting but you will feel pressure instead.
5. Placing the Tube
A thin, flexible tube (a catheter) is inserted into your back through the needle. The needle is removed thereafter.
6. Administering the Medicine
Medicine for anaesthesia is injected through the tube. It starts to take effect in 20 to 30 minutes.
7. Feeling Comfortable
The tube remains in place, so the medication can continue as needed. You can relax and lie down.
When Is an Epidural Administered?
Now that what is epidural anesthesia is clear, let us understand when it is administered. Epidural injection is given when pain must be controlled without making you sleep. Examples include:
- During labour and delivery
- Before a C-section
- During below-the-waist surgery
- During some kinds of cancer treatments
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Usually epidurals are safe in all but as with any medical procedure, there can be potential side effects. Some of the epidural side effects are listed below:
Common Epidural Injection Side Effects
- Low blood pressure: You can be dizzy or light-headed. This is easily controlled by the physicians.
- Shivering: You may feel shaky or cold.
- Backache: Your back can ache for a few days.
- Difficulty passing urine: You can have trouble peeing.
- Itchy skin: This can occur due to the medicine.
- Leg numbness: Your legs can feel numb or heavy.
Rare Risks
- Severe headache: This occurs when the needle is inserted too deep. It is rare and manageable.
- Infection: Extremely rare, as the region is properly sterilised.
- Damage to nerves: Extremely, extremely uncommon – only occurs in 1% of cases.
Is Epidural Safe?
People often ask is epidural safe and the answer is yes! Nearly anyone can have it safely. Skilled doctors and nurses administer it in hospitals. They watch carefully over your health. Most women report that it made having a baby so much simpler.
But some individuals cannot have an epidural, for instance:
- If you have blood disorders
- If you have a skin infection on your back
- If you are taking blood-thinning medication
If you are thinking: does epidural cause back pain– its simple answer is no! They don’t typically cause long-term back pain, but some women may experience temporary soreness, or a mild pain at the injection site after childbirth
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Final Thoughts
Epidural injection is a great way of pain relief especially during childbirth and certain surgeries. It keeps you awake and relaxed but pain-free. Although there are some risks involved, they are minimal and easily controlled.
If you or the person you are close to is going to be having an epidural, speak with a doctor or a nurse. They will calm you down and tell you everything.
You don’t have to fear pain relief. You can be a brave one and be safe with good care.
FAQs Related to Epidural Injection
