What are some possible side effects of epidurals during labor?
• The potential for side effects or complications exists with any form of anaesthesia. In general, local or regional anaesthesia is very safe, and usually safer than a general anaesthetic. The most common side effect is a temporary weakness or paralysis of the affected area. This usually wears off after a while. Complications may usually occur when the local anaesthetic is injected in the wrong place. If a large volume (10-20 mls.) of local anaesthetic is injected into a vein by mistake, it may cause convulsions and even cardiac arrest. This is why the anaesthetist always inject drugs slowly, sucking back on the syringe to check the local anaesthetic is not going into a vein. In fact major nerve blocks must be performed in an area equipped with oxygen, suction, drugs, and other resuscitation devices. • Some more benign side effects may include temporary weakness in the legs, difficulty passing urine (hence the catheters most women with epidurals need), and/or a decrease in blood pressu
