Epidural anesthesia is one of the most common pain relief methods during childbirth and provides significant relief for many mothers.
However, despite its effectiveness, it has potential side effects and complications that may affect the mother temporarily or in the long term.
First: Sudden Low Blood Pressure
One of the most common side effects of epidural anesthesia is a drop in blood pressure immediately after the injection, which
- may lead to a decrease in the amount of blood flowing to the fetus.
- This can cause severe dizziness or nausea in the mother.
- This requires close monitoring and a high level of medical care.
Second: Severe Headaches After Childbirth
Some women experience headaches due to leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the spine.
- This type is known as a spinal headache.
- It usually appears a day or more after childbirth.
- It worsens when sitting and improves when lying down.
- Sometimes, medical intervention, such as a blood patch, is required to relieve it.
Third: Urination Problems After Childbirth
Episural anesthesia may affect bladder control, as it:
- Causes a feeling of incomplete urination or urinary retention.
- May require the use of a temporary catheter.
- Normal functions typically return within one to two days.
Fourth: Persistent Back Pain
Although this is temporary for most women, some experience long-term pain, as:
- Pain may occur at the injection site.
- Sometimes it is confused with normal pain resulting from pregnancy or childbirth.
- It is rarely permanent, but it is annoying for some.
Fifth: Impact on the Progress of Labor
Episural anesthesia may affect uterine contractions and the speed of labor, as it:
- May slow the second stage of labor, pushing.
- Increases the likelihood of needing a vacuum or forceps delivery.
- May increase the need for artificial induction of labor.
Sixth: Allergy or Reaction to the Anesthetic
Some women may experience reactions to the anesthetic, such as:
- Skin rash or itching.
- Difficulty breathing, rare but possible.
- A sudden decrease in consciousness or responsiveness.
Seventh: Temporary Effects on the Nerves
The injection may cause a temporary sensation of numbness or tingling in the legs, such as:
- A feeling of heaviness or reduced mobility after delivery.
- Permanent nerve damage is rare.
- In most cases, symptoms gradually subside.
Eighth: Fever
Some women experience a mild fever, which can
- sometimes be difficult to distinguish from infection.
- This may require further evaluation of the mother and fetus.
- Medical monitoring is required to avoid complications.
Ninth: Increased Risk of Cesarean Section
Although an anesthetic injection does not directly lead to a cesarean section, it may be associated with an increased likelihood of requiring one:
- Due to delayed labor or weak contractions.
- Especially if the birth is a first-time birth or with induction.
Tenth: Psychological State and the Effect of Epidural Anesthesia
Epidural anesthesia may have an indirect effect on the mother's psychological state after childbirth, such as:
- Feelings of helplessness or loss of control during childbirth due to the anesthesia.
- Some mothers experience anxiety or mood swings after the experience.
- In rare cases, symptoms of postpartum depression may worsen.
- Psychological support before and after childbirth helps overcome these feelings.
Article Summary
The epidural injection is an effective means of relieving labor pain, but its potential side effects should not be ignored.
Therefore, it is essential for every mother to be aware of the complications, which may include headaches, low blood pressure, or temporary effects on the nerves and bladder. Responses vary from woman to woman, so making the right decision requires balancing the benefits and risks of the injection, in consultation with the medical team, and in accordance with the mother's condition and preferences.