Can everyone have epidural analgesia?
No. Pain relief with an epidural is not for all patients. You may not be a candidate for epidural analgesia if you: 1) are allergic to certain narcotics or local anesthetics, 2) have nervous system (neurological) disease, 3) have a bleeding tendency or coagulation disorder, 4) take aspirin routinely, 5) have an infection in the lower back, 6) have had previous back surgery, 7) have a psychological disorder or a fear of needles, 8) are very overweight, 9) have a spinal deformity, 10) cannot cooperate or get into a position to allow the anesthetic administration, 11) are too early in your labor, 12) are progressing too rapidly, or 13) have an abnormal labor or fetal monitoring pattern. Its important that you be honest and open with your doctor and the anesthetist if you have any of these conditions.
