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Epidurals are administered during active labor and for cesarean births. What will this do for me? Very good pain reliefprovide pain relief without sedationallows woman to be fully alert during labor/birth

What are the disadvantages? Administration may be uncomfortableOccasional incomplete pain reliefMay decrease strength and frequency of contractions resulting in use of Pitocin (induction drug)May interfere with baby's rotation due to laxity of pelvic musculature (i.e. persistent posterior position)May lower maternal blood pressure so IV & continuous external fetal heart monitoring are requiredWoman may also need to wear a pulse oximeter & receive O2 by maskMay require urinary catheterization if unable to void, which may increase risk of urinary tract infectionMay interfere with pushing efforts during the second stage & increase the need for forceps or vacuum extractionWoman confined to bed and limited in choice of positions. Prevents ambulation which is known to enhance laborImpact on newborn is still ongoing study

A variety of drugs can be used during childbirth. To best understand their impact on you, it is your responsibility to talk with your caregiver about the types, dosages, and effects of medication you may be given. The falowing is general summary.
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