Painless Delivery is Safe or Not
As a woman approaches the delivery date, her fear heightens. Anxiety, fear, and uncertainty are pretty normal feelings during this time. The most intimidating part about childbirth is the excruciating pain. Fortunately, modern science has made childbirth less painful and a more manageable procedure.
Epidural Analgesia, also known as painless delivery, has become the most preferred choice for women undergoing childbirth at a maternity hospital in Navi Mumbai. That said, there are many myths about the concept. The biggest question every woman asks about the procedure is, “Is painless delivery safe or not”? Let’s find out.
Types of Painless Delivery Methods
Here’s how you can deliver your baby vaginally without experiencing labor pain.
1) Epidural Anesthesia:
It’s injected near the spinal cord, in the lower back, to block the pain sensation. The dose is carefully adjusted so that the woman stays awake throughout labor and can push when it’s time to deliver.
2) Spinal Block:
Although it’s commonly used in a c-section delivery, the spinal block can also be administered to women who are attempting a vaginal birth. It’s injected into the spinal fluid, offering immediate pain relief.
3) Laughing Gas:
In some cases, healthcare professionals use laughing gas to help manage your anxiety, which in turn reduces the intensity of pain. It does not eliminate pain completely, but it can help manage it to some level.
Pros of Painless Delivery
Painless delivery is considered safe. Here are its benefits:
i) Reduced Labor Pain:
Pain relief is the biggest advantage of epidural analgesia. It helps mothers relax and experience childbirth without enduring pain.
ii) Increased Comfort for the Mother:
When there is no labor pain, pushing becomes much easier for the mother upon complete dilation. This also reduces anxiety and makes the childbirth experience quite joyful.
iii) Adjustable Dosage:
The dose can be adjusted based on your requirements and the intensity of your pain. It can be increased, reduced, or stopped when needed.
Also Read: Is Normal Delivery Possible After Cervical Cerclage?
Cons of Painless Delivery
When administered by a professional painless delivery doctor in Navi Mumbai, epidurals are generally safe and are quite effective in reducing labor pain. However, there are a few things you should know about painless delivery before considering it.
a) Back Pain:
Women who opt for epidural analgesia might experience soreness around the injection site and difficulty urinating.
b) Prolonged Labor:
There’s a possibility that epidurals can make the pushing phase harder. This can extend your labor.
c) You Can’t Move:
Since your lower body will be under the effect of anesthesia, you can’t move until the epidural is removed.
d) Forceps or C-Section Delivery:
Some women might need to undergo an immediate C-section or an assisted vaginal birth with forceps or vacuums.
e) Added Cost:
Some hospitals charge extra for administering epidural anesthesia during childbirth. This can make painless vaginal delivery expensive. While painless delivery can make your childbirth experience better, it’s best to discuss your health and delivery goals with your gynecologist beforehand. It’s also important to choose a healthcare facility that’s equipped with the technology to offer painless delivery and conduct an emergency c-section delivery.