What are possible side effects of an epidural/pain management?
Possible side effects:
The epidural blocks all sharp pain and temperature sensation to ease your contractions. As a result, side effects of an epidural may include:
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Decreased sensation to the legs and bladder (usually a tube/catheter is inserted to help you empty your bladder as you won’t be able to walk to the bathroom),
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Feeling itchy from the medication
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Nausea
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Temporary discomfort at site of injection after birth.
Other risks:
Risks are rare but include:
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Possibility for inadequate pain relief
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Drop in blood pressure causing possible dips in your baby’s heart rate
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In less than 1% of patients a prolonged and painful headache
An epidural does not cause long-term back pain. The bony and muscular changes of pregnancy and recovery are responsible for lingering back pain. You will have the chance to discuss the procedure, risks, and benefits of epidural or spinal anaesthesia when you need it in the hospital.
Koble series:
Anaesthesia pain control and birth by Dr Kelly Fedoruk (obstetric anesthesiologist)
Other resources:
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tn9762
https://www.todaysparent.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/epidural-myths-that-way-too-many-women-believe/