If you have a pelvic exam any time after week 37, and your provider determines your baby is in a breech position (not in a head-down position), she may attempt to turn your baby using a procedure called ECV, or external cephalic version. Labor isn't the only time when you may be given an epidural. A quick-acting spinal block can also be given if you have an unscheduled cesarean section and you haven't been given an epidural. In this case, with the epidural catheter already in place, your anesthesiologist can administer more medication to prepare you for surgery. For example, you may be given an epidural during a planned vaginal delivery only to find out that you'll need to undergo a cesarean section. Your provider may recommend you have an epidural if your vaginal birth is induced, because contractions can sometimes be more painful in this case.Įpidurals are sometimes used during cesarean sections, too.

Discuss the timing with your provider to figure out what's best for you. The epidural is often administered during active labor but can be given earlier in the process, such as when your contractions begin, or later on, such as during the second stage of labor when you push your baby out. Of course, when the time comes, it's perfectly normal to change your mind just let your medical team know. If you're working on a birth plan, you might like to include your pain relief preferences. If you think you might like to have an epidural, you should ask your healthcare provider at one of your prenatal sessions whether it is available at the hospital or birthing center where you will be giving birth. You will still be aware of your contractions. Once you're on the epidural, you can still move and push, but you may not be able to walk. The chief benefit of an epidural is that it allows you to remain alert and awake throughout labor and delivery while eliminating most of the pain by numbing your lower abdomen and birth canal. What Is an Epidural?Īn epidural block is one of the most common types of pain management used during labor. Read on to find out more about what an epidural is, how it works, and what the risks and side effects can be. One common method you might have heard about is the epidural injection. As you count down to the big day when you get to meet your baby, you may be thinking about your pain relief options for labor.

Epidural after effects