Pain Management Choices for Labor and Delivery
The journey of labor is unique for each individual, which is why the BirthPlace at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center offers an array of safe pain management options for expectant mothers. It’s advisable for pregnant women to have a conversation with their healthcare provider about their birth plans and which pain management methods align best with their needs.
Medication-Based Alternatives:
Epidural Block
Referred to as an epidural, this pain management technique stands as one of the most prevalent choices in the United States.
How does it work? The procedure commences with the application of a numbing agent at the injection site. Subsequently, a catheter is threaded through a needle into the epidural space near the spine. This slender tube enables the administration of anesthetics and/or narcotics throughout labor. These medications numb the nerve fibers in the spinal cord, significantly alleviating the pain of contractions. Once the epidural is administered, most patients experience numbness from the waist to the top of the knees in approximately 10-20 minutes. While the sensation of contractions’ pressure remains, mothers can still engage with labor and pushing when required. Epidurals can be administered at any stage of labor and are also employed in C-sections.
Spinal Block
Similar to an epidural, a spinal block involves an injection of anesthetics and/or narcotics in the middle of the back. Although not as common as epidurals, spinal blocks are occasionally administered during C-sections or emergencies.
How does it work? Like epidurals, medications for spinal blocks are injected after numbing a specific area of the back. This swiftly numbs the body from the injection site downward. Unlike epidurals, spinal blocks do not entail catheter insertion, hence employing a smaller needle. Consequently, the duration of pain control from a spinal block is relatively short, generally around two hours.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is employed for anxiety relief and pain management. Commonly known as “laughing gas,” many mothers describe it as inducing a sense of calm. While nitrous oxide has been extensively used for childbirth in other countries, its popularity has grown in the United States in recent times.
How does it work? Nitrous oxide is combined with oxygen and self-administered by laboring mothers through a breathing mask. Optimal results are achieved when inhalation begins 30 seconds into a contraction. As it is not delivered intravenously, mothers can maintain their mobility while in labor. Nitrous oxide offers versatility as patients can switch to a different pain management option if needed.
Systemic Analgesics
In contrast to targeting specific body regions, systemic analgesics impact the entire nervous system, creating an overall sense of calm and pain reduction.
How do they work? Systemic analgesics, consisting of intravenous narcotics and sedatives, are administered via injection or a self-controlled IV line. These substances induce drowsiness and are often given during early labor to facilitate rest. Unlike other options, analgesics are generally discontinued as the pushing phase approaches.
Discover more about pain management choices, including associated risks and side effects of these medications.
Apart from medicated options, our practitioners offer support for laboring mothers through breathing techniques. In addition, expectant mothers on our unit have access to amenities like hot showers, walking, movement, birthing balls, and peanut balls, all within the guidelines set by their healthcare provider.
