Epidural anaesthesia is a local anaesthetic (derived from cocaine) administered via an injection into the epidural space of the spine (the space around (epi), the tough covering (dura) that protects the spine)

Pro's

• Can eliminate all sensation from the waist down if successful
• Quick to transfer for a Caesar if necessary
• The expected drop in blood pressure can be beneficial for mom’s with high BP
• With a mobile epidural a mother is able to move around
• If the epidural is timed perfectly the mother may be able to push the baby out herself
• Helpful for women having a long and difficult labour

Con's

• Can fail to work
• Some women dislike the sensation of paralysis and feel helpless
• Need for constant monitoring
• Babies can show signs of distress which increases the risk of a caesarean
• Can increase the length of labour
• Higher rate of episiotomies
• Risk of Long-term backache
• Risk of long-term headache
• Higher risk of assisted delivery (Forceps / Vontouse)
• Assisted deliveries can cause bruising or damage to babies
• Passes through the placenta to the baby resulting in drowsiness in the baby
• Can increase Baby's body temperature which may require antibiotics
• Itching of the skin
• You may be required to stay in bed for several hours afterwards
• Synotcinon (pitocin) may be needed which can cause foetal distress and affect the babies heart-rate
• A catheter and drip are necessary
• Can increase the risk of post-partum haemorrhage
• Less common side effects include slurred speech, drowsiness and convulsions

Whilst an epidural is an effective form of pain relief it is not without potential risks for mother or baby.  Many mothers avoid certain foods throughout their pregnancy for fear of it crossing the placenta to their baby but don't consider the same applies to drugs administered in labour.

Should you want to consider an epidural it is better to keep it as a back-up rather than to book it in advance – you may be one of those women that doesn't need it, so save yourself and you baby from potential risks and additional expense until it is completely necessary! - Kim Young 

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