"Let us know what you think about this episode"

We explore epidurals in childbirth, examining what they are, their risks, and why unmedicated birth options deserve equal consideration in your birth plan.
• Epidurals are regional anesthesia using local anesthetics and opioids to block pain signals from the waist down
• Research shows epidurals can slow labor progression, especially during the pushing phase by up to 90 minutes
• Associated with higher likelihood of requiring vacuum extraction or forceps during delivery
• Can contribute to a cascade of interventions including Pitocin, continuous monitoring, and potentially C-section
• Side effects include maternal hypotension in 14-33% of cases, which can reduce blood flow to the placenta
• Rare complications include post-dural puncture headaches and nerve damage
• Can cause maternal fever (15% higher risk), potentially leading to unnecessary antibiotic treatment for baby
• May affect baby's alertness and rooting reflexes, creating challenges with early breastfeeding
• Despite risks, epidurals have benefits including pain relief, stress reduction, and making complicated labors manageable
• Create a "moment of crisis plan" to determine your first step when you need help during labor
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or subscribe for more evidence-based discussions on pregnancy and birth. Thank you for your support.

Links to research:

Epidurals effect on second stage of labor -https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24499753/

Epidurals effects on vacuum or forceps use in birth -https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6494646/

Reducted risk of cesarean delivery with discontinuation of pitocin in active labor - https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(25)00161-9/fulltext

Epidurals and maternal fever - https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(22)00480-X/fulltext

Epidurals and early breastfeeding difficulty - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501222/
🎙 Thanks for Tuning into Tend & Befriend!

🌿 Learn More & Work With Me:
💻 Visit Website for my birth course, resources, and to book a session with me.

📲 Stay Connected:
📷 Instagram: @deborahthedoula
📘 Facebook: @deborahthedoula
💡 Loved this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs it!

🔗 Find all links here: Our website

I hope to talk to you soon!!