Outpatient Epidural Anesthesia And Its Effects

The use of a milder form of anesthesia in childbirth has been studied and investigated in many studies. One of the great successes in this regard is “outpatient epidural anesthesia”.

The main benefit of outpatient epidural anesthesia is that the pain is reduced without paralyzing the mother. In this way, she can cooperate and be active in the birth process with greater ease.

This anesthesia is also known as a “walking” epidural. The mother can move, but the pains are inhibited.

The body does not fall asleep, as with other types of anesthesia. This can be very helpful during the first three hours of labor.

Doctors say that an outpatient epidural anesthesia is as safe as the more popular epidural anesthesia that paralyzes the entire lower body. The great advantage is that the mother can take the most comfortable positions for shaking.

It is also positive psychologically because the woman feels more involved and has independence and control during this unforgettable moment.

This is how outpatient epidural anesthesia is given

The procedure is performed in the same way as the traditional epidural anesthesia. The difference is the medicine and the dose administered.

The patient sits up and forms a “C” with the back, and the injection is applied between the vertebrae. A needle is used to position the catheter through which the anesthetic will pass.

Benefits of an outpatient epidural anesthesia during childbirth

• The ability to move. Once applied, the woman does not lose the feeling in her lower body. Being able to move without feeling the pain from the contractions contributes to the enlargement taking place faster.

• Greater comfort. By having control over her body, the mother can take whatever position she wants. In this way, she actively participates in the birth in a way that makes her more secure.
• It is easier to shake. One of the most difficult and beautiful phases is finding the strength to help the child get out. It has been shown that an outpatient epidural anesthesia makes this moment easier for the mother.
• It enters into force quickly. Once the ambulatory epidural anesthesia has been placed, it has a faster effect than the traditional one.
• Minor problem with urine. The fact that the muscles are less affected means that it is easier to urinate.
• An outpatient epidural anesthesia can be applied in different phases. This anesthesia can be applied at any time during childbirth. It will be a specialist doctor or midwife who decides when to use it, in consultation with the mother.

Disadvantages of an outpatient epidural anesthesia

• The catheter cannot be moved.
• It causes more nausea than a traditional epidural anesthesia.
• The opioids administered can cause itching.
• Headache.

Although it seems miraculous, the truth is that this type of anesthesia is not always possible. As with anything related to health, your doctor must examine you to determine which anesthetic is most appropriate.

In addition, when the birth is already in an advanced stage, an outpatient epidural anesthesia is not recommended. In such cases, it is better to use the traditional variant.

Do all maternity wards offer ambulatory epidural anesthesia ?

Some hospitals do not have this type of anesthesia yet, usually because a special protocol is required. Medical centers need more staff and resources for deliveries with outpatient epidural anesthesia.

After the anesthesia is applied and takes effect, the patient must be examined to ensure that she has full control over her legs. This is done with specific techniques and can not be done everywhere.

It is always necessary for the mother to be accompanied by another adult whom she trusts. In addition to the psychological support that is necessary for the big day, this person will be very helpful during the birth.

Anesthesia can cause discomfort. The security of having someone next to you is fundamental.

As with all births, monitoring the health of the fetus is crucial. When all circumstances are monitored, the risks can be reduced, and the doctors will always be the ones who decide what is best for mother and child.

Being informed and prepared is an important commitment for expectant parents. Their participation in everything related to childbirth must be an act of love and responsibility.