There is an increased possibility that forceps will be necessary. Forceps usually require an episiotomy which is a cut enlarging the birth opening. The use of forceps makes most episiotomies larger, requiring more stitches, and potential pain. Advantages of Epidural Anesthesia Disadvantages of Epidural Anesthesia Freedom from pain during labor and birth. Unlike some drugs it does not make the woman drowsy before or after birth.
Little medicine reaches the baby.
Close monitoring by the hospital staff may give the laboring mother a sense of confidence. Labor may be slowed by the woman's inability to move about and make use of gravity. The mother must remain in bed on her side with her head at the same level throughout labor. The mother must have constant intravenous fluids and electronic fetal monitoring. The mother must have her blood pressure taken frequently.