Aster Speciality Clinic

Painless Delivery: An approach to birthing with confidence

What Is Painless Delivery?

Painless delivery refers to the use of an epidural injection which is given by an anaesthesiologist for pain relief during labour. It is injected in the lower back, and a plastic tube is placed through which drugs are released around the spinal cord. It is injected only once when you are in active labour which means you are having at least three contractions in 10 minutes.

Epidural doesn’t always provide 100% pain relief, but it substantially reduces pain and sensations in the lower half of the body. In early labour, pain can be managed using natural methods like warm showers, massages, and exercises.

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Why Should You Avoid An Epidural?

Epidural has a numbing effect. You will not be able to walk around and be confined to your bed.

Your labour may be longer.
You may have difficulty urinating and need a catheter.
You may experience nausea and dizziness.
You may be at higher risk for forceps or vacuum delivery.

Is it safe to take Epidural?

According to doctors, epidurals are safe for the mother and baby, and provide strong pain relief. Like any medical procedure, they may cause some side effects.

Pros

It helps a woman cope better with post-partum depression or exhaustion.

Pros

It relaxes the vaginal muscles and provides space for the baby to descend.

Cons

A decrease in the mother’s blood pressure can lead to a slowing down of heartbeat rate in the baby.

Cons

There is a risk of experiencing severe headaches because of spinal fluid leakage.

Should You Choose a Painless Delivery?

Pregnant women can prepare for a normal delivery by building stamina, doing labour exercises, practicing breathing techniques, and choosing a birth partner. With proper support, many women cope with labour pain without an epidural.