It may be getting close to that day when your beautiful bundle of joy is expected to arrive. That’s when the questions and buzz about pain relief begin to arise. Will you have an epidural? What other type of pain medications are out there to help ease the discomfort of childbirth?
Before the special moment arrives, it is important that you talk with your pregnancy care physician about the best pain relief option for you.
Epidurals
An epidural is a regional or “local” anesthesia that blocks pain in a particular part of the body. According to the American Pregnancy Association, at least 50% of women choose this form of pain relief during labor. During an epidural, the lower part of a woman’s body is somewhat numbed, making the pain feel less severe.
There are two different types of epidurals you can choose from. One is a patient-controlled epidural, meaning the woman decides how much anesthesia she needs for the pain; the other is a walking epidural, which includes an epidural as well as a spinal block. This can allow a woman enough strength to be able to walk some during labor.
Spinal Block
A spinal block is another type of regional anesthetic that is given in a one-time dose through a shot in the lower back. Instant relief is obtained with a spinal block. It is often used when a woman is expected to deliver her baby in a few hours, is about to undergo a C-section, or is about to have the baby delivered using a vacuum or forceps.
Opiates
Opiates are another choice to consider. These medications provide systematic pain relief that enters through the blood stream. Opiates can help relieve pain for a few hours, but they do not take it away completely. Examples of common opiates include Demerol and morphine. This is a great choice for women who may not be able to have an epidural, or who would prefer to be in full control of their muscles and walk around during labor.
All women should be able to make an educated decision on which type of pain relief they would like to use. Visit our knowledge center for more information regarding the details of labor pain relief.
Also, our Gainesville doctors, nurses and midwives are happy to discuss all of these options with you. Don’t hesitate to contact us today!
