This medication will take the pain away to the point that you will not mind the contractions any more and may actually talk through or sleep through them. However, you might feel a tightening sensation with each contraction. The amount of the medicine is not enough to reach the baby in any significant way. Both the mother's vital signs and baby's heart rate are carefully monitored. Side effects such as spinal headache or back pain are uncommon, but serious complications such as convulsions or temporary paralysis are extremely rare.
Epidural analgesia provides unquestionably the best pain relief for labor pains.
Frequently Asked Questions about Epidurals 1. The best time to learn and research about epidural is before the labor begins. You may discuss the option with your obstetrician and make your intention known. However the majority of women request epidural anesthesia after labor pains become intolerable. We will make every attempt to attend to you as soon as possible.