Women who choose epidural anesthesia get a break from contractions and can conserve their energy when they need to push the baby out of the birth canal. Unlike short-acting narcotics, epidural anesthesia does not enter the baby s blood stream. Complications occasionally can include a drop in the baby s heart rate and, if given too late in the labor phase, can delay labor or impede pushing so that forceps or vacuum suction delivery are required. Spinal Narcotic Analgesia Given literally just before the baby is born, spinal anesthesia numbs from the waist down. Spinal anesthesia necessitates forceps or vacuum delivery.
Risks can include headaches and decreased blood pressure.
By educating yourself, you will develop the skills and confidence to have a healthy pregnancy and birth. Classes cover a wide array of topics, including prenatal nutrition, the psychological and physical changes that take place at childbirth, and options for coping with pain during childbirth and newborn health. Even if you have decided to receive obstetrical anesthesia, you can benefit from Lamaze relaxation and breathing techniques, until your doctor administers your medication or in the event your delivery does not go as planned. Consider the recommendations and suggestions that are made to you during these classes and discuss all of these options with your obstetrician or midwife. Hypnosis More and more women are turning to alternative methods to alleviate pain during childbirth.