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How numb will regional anesthesia make me feel?
Although you will feel significant pain relief, you may still be aware of mild pressure
from your contractions. You may also feel pressure when your health care provider examines
you.
Will a regional block slow my labor?
In some women, contractions may slow after regional anesthesia for a short period of time.
Most women find that regional anesthesia helps them to relax and actually improves their
contraction pattern while allowing them to rest.
If I have regional anesthesia, will I be able to push?
Yes. Regional anesthesia allows you to rest comfortably while your cervix dilates. When
your cervix is completely dilated and it is time to push, you will have energy in reserve.
Regional anesthesia should not affect your ability to push; it will make pushing more
comfortable for you.
Are there any side effects of regional anesthesia?
Your anesthesiologist takes special precautions to prevent complications. Although
side-effects are rare, they occasionally include:
Decreased blood pressure. You will receive intravenous fluids and your blood pressure
will be carefully monitored and treated to prevent this from
happening.
Mild itching during labor. If itching becomes bothersome, your anesthesiologist can
treat it with medication. Most women find the itching to be quite
mild.
Headache. Drinking fluids and taking pain tablets can help relieve headaches after regional
anesthesia. If the headache persists, tell your anesthesiologist and additional medication
can be ordered for you.
Local anesthetic reaction. While local anesthetic reactions are rare, they can be serious.
Be sure to tell your anesthesiologist if you become dizzy or develop ringing in your ears
so that he or she can quickly treat the problem.
Persistent pain in some areas. Sometimes the anesthetic does not reach an area leaving a
“spot” which is still painful. Your anesthesiologist may change your position or move
the epidural catheter to relieve the pain. Occasionally, the regional anesthetic may need to
be repeated to get relief. In either situation, your anesthesiologist will work with you to
make you comfortable.
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