An anesthetist inserts a small plastic tube into the mother's back, and a mixture of local anesthetic freezing drugs and a powerful painkiller is injected. By using a pump, a slow continual stream of these medications runs into the mother's back and gives pain relief. While this is generally very safe, and has been used at O.S.M.H. for many years without serious problems, we need to inform you of the possible risks and complications. Your blood pressure may drop. Other studies have not confirmed this.
Many women suffer backache during pregnancy and after labour.
Current research suggests that this is not worsened by epidurals. Some women have an area of numbness which lasts for several days. The epidural catheter can be put in the wrong place. Very rarely a dose of local anesthetic is injected into the blood vessel and the patient notices a metallic taste in her mouth, becomes dizzy, and may go on to have a convulsion or even a heart attack. With prompt treatment, complete recovery from this complication is possible.