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Understanding Anesthesia Options for Expectant Mothers

As we prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day, Dr. Amy Mauritz, an obstetric anesthesiologist with U.S. Anesthesia Partners and a mother of two, emphasizes the importance of educating expectant mothers about their anesthesia options. With childbirth being a monumental experience, having the right knowledge about pain management is essential.

Types of Anesthesia During Childbirth

During labor, the two primary types of anesthesia that come into play are epidurals and spinals. An epidural is commonly used for vaginal deliveries while spinal anesthesia is typically reserved for cesarean sections. Both methods involve administering medication near the spinal cord in the lower back, effectively blocking pain signals from reaching the brain and ensuring a more comfortable labor for the expectant mother.

Dr. Mauritz highlights seven important points that every expectant mother should be aware of when it comes to anesthesia:

1. Requesting an Epidural

Contrary to popular belief, there’s a misconception that mothers must wait to reach a specific dilation before they can ask for an epidural. Dr. Mauritz assures that as long as they have previously been deemed eligible, mothers can request an epidural whenever they wish during labor.

2. Medical Eligibility

It’s crucial for mothers to understand that not every woman will be medically qualified to receive an epidural or spinal anesthesia. Factors such as medical history and current medications can affect eligibility. Dr. Mauritz recommends that mothers consult with their obstetricians ahead of time to discuss their options thoroughly, ideally well before delivery day.

3. Adhering to Guidelines

Expectant mothers must strictly follow dietary recommendations before scheduled cesarean deliveries, commonly referred to as NPO (nothing by mouth). Ignoring these guidelines could result in the postponement of the delivery to minimize the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

4. Safety for the Baby

Both epidurals and spinals are considered safe for newborns. Because the medications are not administered through an IV, their systemic absorption is minimal, reducing the baby’s exposure to these drugs significantly.

5. Addressing Myths About Back Pain

A prevalent myth is that receiving an epidural increases the likelihood of chronic back pain. However, Dr. Mauritz references a long-term study which found no significant difference in back pain occurrences between women who received epidurals and those who did not.

6. Understanding Anesthesia Effects

Expecting mothers should be aware that it usually takes 10-15 minutes for an epidural to fully take effect, whereas spinal anesthesia may take about five minutes. Both methods can cause a drop in blood pressure. Therefore, if mothers experience nausea or dizziness after administration, it’s essential to inform the medical staff immediately.

7. Speak Up During Labor

Communication is vital during labor. Dr. Mauritz advises mothers to express how they’re feeling throughout the delivery process. Whether it’s feeling numb on one side or if the epidural doesn’t seem to be working, it's crucial to speak up and let the anesthesiologist know about any concerns.

In addition, while this might not relate directly to anesthesia, Dr. Mauritz encourages partners to capture the moment without hesitance. With the mother’s permission, fathers can bring cameras into the operating room to document the thrilling experience of welcoming a new family member. The medical staff is also eager to assist in capturing those precious moments.

This information is intended for educational purposes, as always, consulting with one’s physician is paramount to tailor the right plan for each individual’s needs.

About U.S. Anesthesia Partners

U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Inc. ensures quality anesthesia services through its network of over 4,500 clinicians operating in more than 700 facilities across the country. Committed to safety and excellence, USAP continues to innovate to provide consistent and high-quality care for all patients.