Achieving a safe, successful birth experience is the goal of every expectant parent. Unfortunately, there can be risks associated with certain childbirth procedures and medications. One such option for pain relief during labor is an epidural; this common procedure blocks the signals from your nerves to alleviate any discomfort that may occur during vaginal delivery or c-section surgeries.
While providing increased comfort, epidurals have their own set of potential side effects that should be carefully considered before making a decision about which pain management technique works best for you during your delivery. In this blog post we will discuss 14 possible side effects associated with receiving an epidural.
What is an epidural block?
An epidural block is an administration of anesthesia at the base of the spine which provides pain relief during childbirth - and can even result in a nearly painless birth. An epidural block is generally considered to be safe for both mother and child, however side effects such as nausea and nerve sensitivity can occur depending on individual stress levels or length of labor. For those considering this option, it's important to weigh all potential side effects in order to determine what course of action is best for you.
Common side effects of epidurals during delivery
1- Low blood pressure
Low blood pressure side effects from childbirth epidurals can be alarming for many women. These side effects may include blurred vision, dizziness, headaches, and shakiness. It is important for the doctor to closely monitor changes during the procedure and address any side effects immediately.
If need be, the doctor might prescribe additional treatments such as medications to raise or lower your blood pressure as needed. Taking preventative measures such as drinking plenty of fluids can also help reduce side effects associated with low blood pressure due to epidurals. Understanding how to recognize potential side effects of epidurals ahead of time is critical in ensuring a safe delivery.
2- Soreness
Soreness is a side effect that can arise from receiving an epidural for delivery. It's important to be aware of this side effect, as it can range in degree from mild discomfort to very painful sensations. Soreness may be localized to the area where the epidural was injected or may radiate throughout the lower back, legs and abdomen.
Symptoms can last for several days or weeks after delivery and may worsen when standing or walking due to movement causing friction against the muscle surface where the epidural was given. Taking frequent breaks while getting up and down will reduce discomfort and help alleviate soreness associated with epidurals during delivery.
3- Loss of bladder control
For pregnant women, epidurals have been a popular form of pain relief during labor for decades. They are effective in providing much needed comfort, however side effects can occur following delivery. One side effect could be the loss of bladder control due to the decrease in nerve impulses that stimulate urination.
Though this side effect is rare, it can create serious consequences such as difficulty maintaining hygiene and excess urine leakage when coughing or sneezing. Improved medical devices and methods to monitor possible side effects are being developed by healthcare professionals who seek to optimize safety while providing quality care during delivery.
4- Itchy skin
Experiencing itchy skin side effects is a common side effect of epidurals during delivery. It may feel like an irritating crawling sensation across the body, including the legs, abdomen, and back. Itching can be severe in some cases, causing constant scratching even when other side effects are not present.
While the side effects usually resolve in a few days following delivery, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider or midwife if you experience unusual level of itching after receiving an epidural during delivery. They will be able to determine if any further treatments are needed.
5- Feeling sick
Feeling sick is a common side effect of having an epidural during delivery. It's important to note that this side effect usually only lasts 24-48 hours, and should not cause any long term health issues or discomfort. Other side effects may include headache, backache, itching, shaking, fever and nausea.
In rare cases, infection may occur at the site where the epidural was administered. If you are experiencing any side effects after receiving an epidural it is important to contact your doctor to determine which course of action is best for you.
6- Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are side effects of epidurals during delivery that can be difficult for expecting parents to prepare for. While epidurals have been credited with helping women have more comfortable births, it also has side effects like nausea and vomiting.
Women who opt for an epidural should discuss the side effects of nausea and vomiting with their physician as part of their overall delivery plan and be prepared mentally to face this side effect after the epidural takes effect. Fortunately, many birth care centers will offer medications, such as iv antiemetics, to treat nausea and vomiting associated with epidural anesthesia if needed.
7- Inadequate pain relief
Inadequate pain relief during childbirth is a serious problem that can lead to negative side effects for both the mother and baby. One common form of pain relief used during labor – epidural medications – has been found to have side effects such as lower blood pressure and slower contractions, which can be beneficial or detrimental depending on the situation.
Additionally, there is a risk of epidural-related headaches and reduced sensation in the lower body. While side effects of epidurals must always be kept in mind, they remain an effective way to provide necessary pain relief without overusing other forms of medication, some of which may be more dangerous for both mother and baby.
View More: 10 Best Foods To Eat During Pregnancy For A Healthy Baby
8- Headache
Headaches can be a side effect of epidurals during delivery. Generally, these headaches are caused by leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (csf), which leads to increased pressure on the brain. This type of headache is also called a postdural puncture headache, and it is typically felt behind the eyes and at the back of the head after delivery.
Treatments vary but may include hydration, bed rest, and medications such as caffeine and ibuprofen. In some cases, an epidural blood patch may be necessary to block off csf leakage from the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the brain resulting in cessation of pain associated with postdural puncture headaches.
9- Fever
Fever is a common side effect of epidurals during delivery. It occurs when the epidural medication irritates the lining of the spinal cord, causing inflammation and subsequently an elevated body temperature. This side effect is generally mild and lasts for a short amount of time. However, if the fever persists for more than 24 hours it may be necessary to seek medical attention for further evaluation.
If left untreated, a fever can become dangerous and cause an array of other side effects such as dehydration, weakness, headaches, disorientation and seizures. When considering epidurals while giving birth, it is important to keep in mind that there are possible side effects such as fever which could manifest itself in varying degrees of severity.
10- Slow breathing
Slow breathing, or pranayama, is a technique used in yoga and meditation to foster balance and health. During labor, side effects of epidurals can include slower breathing due to the analgesic effectepidurals. To encourage more mindful breathing during delivery, mothers can use slow breathing techniques to reclaim control over their body and relax their breathing rhythm even while feeling pain and discomfort.
Slow breathing not only helps to calm nerves, it also decreases the intensity of contractions which will help mothers stay focused and manage pain. Slow breathing during labor is beneficial for both mom and baby as it increases oxygen levels in the bloodstream, providing essential nutrients for both mother and child. Practicing slow breathing also boosts energy levels, so moms don't tire too quickly during delivery.
11- Temporary nerve damage
The side effects of epidurals during delivery can sometimes include temporary nerve damage. This type of nerve damage is more common in lower extremities but can reach the arms and fingers as well. Depending on the severity, this type of nerve damage can cause lasting tingling sensations and numbness.
In extreme cases, compression or entrapment may result which often causes serious discomfort and mobility issues until it's addressed with surgery or physical therapy. While these side effects are rare following an epidural, it's important for new mothers to be aware that this is a potential outcome so they can recognize any signs or symptoms early-on and seek out medical attention if necessary.
12- Infection
Infection is a side effect of epidurals during delivery that should not be taken lightly. While epidurals are commonly used for pain relief during labor, the risk of infection can be alarming if certain precautions are not taken. In particular, a sterilized workspace and sterile materials must be used for the epidural to reduce the likelihood of bacterial contamination. It's also critical to identify any existing medical conditions as these can increase your risk for developing an infection due to an epidural.
To reduce even further risk, it's important to communicate with your care provider and make sure they are following all safety requirements while administering the epidural during labor. By taking extra cautionary steps, you should be able to reduce the side effects associated with an infection due to an epidural.
13- Difficulty urinating
Difficulty urinating can be one of the side effects of epidurals administered during delivery. This side effect may occur either immediately after the delivery or a few hours later. It is caused by interruption of the nerve signals that tell the muscles in charge of bladder control to relax and fully empty it during urination.
View More: 10 Best Exercises for Normal Delivery
In most cases, side effects like difficulty urinating from an epidural dissipate quickly with minimal treatment, however severe side effects requiring medical attention may arise as well. It is important to keep an eye out for potential issues and consult your doctor if they persist over time.
14- Permanent nerve damage
Permanent nerve damage is a side effect of epidural injections during labour and delivery. This condition can be caused by an incorrect placement of the epidural, pressure on the spinal cord, or various other medical complications. It can lead to lifelong problems, including chronic back pain and neck stiffness.
Loss of feeling in certain parts of the body, such as the legs and feet, may also occur and cause numbness, burning sensations, tingling and hypersensitivity. While this side effect is not common, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of permanent nerve damage following an epidural injection so that proper treatment can be administered as soon as possible.
Other complications
Epidural side effects can range from minor and temporary discomfort after the anesthesia wears off, to more severe long-term side effects. Some women experience a temporary headache or backache after an epidural, as well as some shaking or trembling in their legs.
Others may feel weak and faint when standing up and experience low blood pressure or itching at the site of the injection. In more extreme cases, these side effects can include nerve damage and even paralysis in rare instances. It is important to discuss risks with your doctor prior to administering any kind of anesthetic during delivery.
Conclusion
Childbirth is an incredibly painful experience for many women, and epidurals are often seen as a way to ease that pain. However, there are some side effects of epidurals that expecting mothers should be aware of before they opt for this form of pain relief. While the decision ultimately comes down to the mother, it’s important to weigh all potential risks and benefits before making a decision about whether or not to get an epidural during childbirth.
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Source: https://instacare.pk/blog/side-effects-of-epidurals-during-delivery
