Understanding and Comparing Your Options: Epidural, Low Dose Epidural and Unmedicated Births
Did you even know that you had options?? If you choose a hospital setting for your birth experience you will have some choice flexibility. This blog post is going to compare the differences between receiving an epidural versus a low dose epidural, as well as an unmedicated birth experience. After reading this blog, you will understand what each one means and the pro’s and con’s of each option!
Classic Epidural:
A classic epidural is likely the form that you are most familiar with and have heard the most about, but let me explain a little more in detail what to expect. This type of epidural involves the injection of a local anesthetic and sometimes a narcotic medication into the epidural space of the spine, which will result in numbing the lower half of the body. As you can imagine, this is an excellent form of pain relief that will either reduce or eliminate the sensation of pain during labor and delivery! The pain relief part sounds great, but due to the anesthetic also affecting the nerves responsible for movement, it will cause a significant loss of motor function and make it difficult for a woman to move or walk.
Pro’s of a Classic Epidural:
Effective and profound pain relief - this can allow for a more comfortable experience during labor and birth.
Ability to have prolonged pain relief - if a C-section is necessary, the epidural can be extended to provide anesthesia for the surgery.
Con’s of a Classic Epidural:
Restricted mobility - a classic epidural can limit a woman’s ability to move, walk or change positions during labor.
Potential side effects - there is a small risk of side effects, such as a drop in blood pressure, headache, backache and difficulty urinating.
Walking Epidural (Low Dose Epidural):
A walking epidural, also known as a low dose epidural, combines elements of a spinal epidural and an epidural block. Initially, a small amount of medication is injected into the spinal space, providing quick pain relief. Then, a catheter is placed into the epidural space to allow for continuous administration of medication. The main difference between this type of epidural and a classic epidural is that it provides pain relief while also allowing for some degree of mobility and movement. This can be especially beneficial for women who prefer to have some motor function and mobility during labor.
Pro’s of a Walking Epidural:
Pain relief with mobility - if you are hoping for an option of pain relief without losing the ability to move, walk or change positions during labor, this may be the option for you!
Faster recovery - since the anesthesia is lighter, recovery after childbirth is usually quicker compared to the classic epidural.
Con’s of a Walking Epidural:
Variable pain relief - while a walking epidural does provides pain relief, it may not be as effective as a classic epidural for severe pain.
Possible limitations - the degree of mobility allowed with a walking epidural may vary depending on individual response and the specific protocol used by the healthcare provider.
Unmedicated:
An unmedicated birth refers to giving birth without the use of pain-relieving medications or interventions. However, the use of Pitocin may be needed at the end to help deliver the placenta to prevent hemorrhage. While every birth experience is unique, here are some general pro’s and con’s of an unmedicated birth.
Pro’s of an Unmedicated Birth:
Increased mobility - without pain-relieving medications, a woman has the freedom to move and change positions during labor, which can help facilitate the birthing process.
Active participation - some women find that an unmedicated birth allows them to feel more connected and in control of the birthing experience.
Natural hormone release - labor pain triggers the release of endorphins and oxytocin, which can enhance bonding, promote breastfeeding, and aid in the management of pain.
Con’s of an Unmedicated Birth:
Intensity - labor can be physically and emotionally demanding, and an unmedicated birth means experiencing the full intensity of contractions and the pushing stage.
Exhaustion - labor can be lengthy, and without pain relief, the continuous intensity of labor may lead to fatigue and a decrease in energy levels.
Limited pain management options - without medical interventions, the options for pain relief are limited, and some women may find the pain overwhelming or difficult to manage.
Alternative Options for Pain Relief Without an Epidural:
If you are seeking pain management options outside of an epidural, you may consider the following for your birth experience:
Water immersion - laboring in a birthing pool or taking a warm bath/shower can provide pain relief and relaxation as well as potential for a shortened duration of labor.
Breathing and relaxation techniques - deep breathing, visualization and mindfulness techniques can help manage pain and promote relaxation.
Massage and counter-pressure - applying pressure or receiving massages on specific ares of the body can help alleviate pain during contractions.
TENS machine - transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices deliver mild electrical impulses that can help distract from labor pain.
Acupuncture/acupressure - these practices involve stimulating specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote relaxation.
Hypnosis - hypnobirthing techniques use self-hypnosis, visualization and relaxation to manage pain and promote a positive birthing experience.
Knowing your options, understanding your options, and finally, feeling confident in the choices you make with those options - even if those choices may be different than the original plan - is the ultimate goal!
And if labor prep is something you are looking for more guidance on…
…make sure check out my Mind Body Core Prenatal Program by clicking below! The Prenatal Program is packed full with strength training, core and mobility and a full labor prep program. Labor Prep can also be purchased as it’s own independent program as well. Make sure to check it out by clicking below!