What Is an Epidural?
An epidural is a type of pain relief given during childbirth. It involves placing a thin tube (catheter) into the lower back, in an area called the epidural space. Through this tube, medicines are given to block pain signals from reaching your brain. This numbs the lower part of your body, so you feel little or no pain while staying awake and aware during labour. The pain relief usually starts within 10 to 20 minutes.What Is a Spinal Block?
A spinal block, often called a “spinal,” is a type of anaesthesia commonly used for planned C-sections. In this method, medicine is injected once with a very thin needle into the spinal fluid in your lower back. This quickly blocks pain and provides relief for about two hours. Unlike an epidural, which uses a catheter for continuous pain relief, a spinal block is a single injection.How Are Epidurals and Spinals Given?
Both procedures are done in your lower back by an anaesthesiologist. You may need to sit up or curl on your side to make it easier.- Epidural: A thin catheter is placed in the epidural space so medicine can flow continuously.
- Spinal: Medicine is given in one shot directly into the spinal fluid.
How do Epidural and Spinal blocks work to relieve pain during labour?
Both epidurals and spinal blocks relieve pain by blocking the signals your nerves send to the brain. This makes contractions feel less intense and more manageable.- Epidurals take a little longer to start working but provide continuous pain relief for an extended period.
- Spinal blocks work almost immediately but usually last a shorter duration, around two hours.
What Are the Benefits of an Epidural?
Epidurals are the most common form of pain relief in labour because they are flexible and long-lasting. They help you rest and stay comfortable, especially in long labour.- Provides pain relief for the entire labour.
- Medicine can be adjusted as needed.
- Lets you remain awake and alert.
- Useful for tiring or complicated labour.
What Are the Benefits of a Spinal Block?
Spinals are best when fast and complete pain relief is needed. They are often chosen for C-sections or very short labours.- Works within minutes.
- Provides strong relief.
- Effective for short procedures or surgical births.
What Are the Possible Side Effects or Risks?
Both epidurals and spinal blocks are generally safe, but like any medical procedure, they can have some side effects. Most side effects from these procedures are mild and temporary.- Low blood pressure: Both methods can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may make you feel dizzy or, in rare cases, slow the baby’s heart rate.
- Headaches: Rarely, a severe headache can occur if spinal fluid leaks during the procedure.
- Leg heaviness or weakness: You may feel numbness or heaviness in your legs, especially with an epidural.
- Urination difficulties: Numbness can make it hard to pass urine temporarily; sometimes a catheter is needed.
- Limited mobility: Epidurals can make walking or moving around during labour difficult, while spinal blocks wear off faster, allowing movement to return sooner.
How to decide which pain relief option is best during labour?
Various factors determine which pain relief option is the best for you. Depending on your medical history, health, and how your labour is progressing, your doctor will let you know your best pain relief option.Both epidurals and spinals are safe and effective pain relief methods. Epidurals work well for long labours, while spinals act quickly and are useful for C-sections. Sometimes, doctors may use both together. The best choice is the one that keeps you safe, comfortable, and supported during childbirth.
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FAQs on Epidural or Spinal? Understanding Your Pain Relief Options in Childbirth
- What is a combined spinal-epidural?
A combined spinal-epidural is when both a spinal block and an epidural are combined to give the patient the benefits of each. First, a small amount of medicine is injected into the spinal fluid for quick pain relief. Then, a thin tube (epidural catheter) is placed to keep giving medicine as needed, so the pain relief lasts throughout labour. - Will an epidural or spinal affect my baby?
Both epidural and spinal are generally safe for the baby. The amount of medication reaching the baby’s bloodstream is very low. - Can I experience a headache from an epidural or spinal?
Yes, although rare, there are chances you may experience a headache from an epidural or spinal. However, your doctor will provide treatment to help relieve it. - Can I feel nauseous after an epidural or spinal?
Yes, both spinal and epidural anaesthesia can sometimes cause nausea or vomiting. This side effect is known as postoperative or intraoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV/IONV). - Is it common to experience shivering after a spinal or epidural?
Yes, shivering is a common side effect of both epidural and spinal anaesthesia. It happens because the medicines cause your blood vessels to widen, leading to heat loss. This heat loss causes a drop in body temperature. Your body then shivers as a natural way to warm itself.