Epidural

What is Epidural for Labor? 

The Epidural is a medication that is used specifically for Labor. The medication helps lessen or block the pain that occurs during childbirth. This is one of the most common forms of labor assistance, medical staff at all hospitals are always ready to administer the medication and have various ways to administer the medication.

Administration:

The administration of the medication can be distributed in a few different ways. Epidural solutions can usually be applied via bolus injection, IV infusions, or a patient-controlled pump. The other means of administration is through a spinal Epidural injection which is administered through an injection directly into the spine. This medication is usually administered by an Anesthesiologist or a Registered Nurse, these medical professionals are usually the only professionals who administer the medication due to the special training that is needed to administer the medication

Effects:

The medication works by numbing the patient from the waist down or to lessen the pain from contractions. This in turn helps the mother go through labor in a less painful manner and avoid discomfort. The effects of the Epidural usually start to go into effect in about 20-30 minutes. They are usually very safe, help with the pain and can even help a woman going through a C-section stay awake during the birth.