What are the disadvantages of epidural anesthesia?
• Epidurals may cause your blood pressure to suddenly drop. (This happens in about 1-2% of all mothers who receive an epidural) For this reason your blood pressure will be routinely checked to make sure there is adequate blood flow to your baby. If this happens you may need to be treated with IV fluids, medications, and oxygen. • You may experience a severe headache caused by leakage of spinal fluid. Less than 1% of women experience this side effect from epidural use. If symptoms persist a special procedure can be done to relieve the headache. • After your epidural is placed, you will need to lie on your side in bed and have continuous monitoring for changes in fetal heart rate. Lying in one position can sometimes cause labor to slow down or stop. • You may experience the following side effects: shivering, ringing of the ears, backache, soreness where the needle is inserted, nausea, or difficulty urinating • You may find that your epidural makes pushing more difficult and forceps may b
