What are the benefits of epidural anesthesia?
An epidural provides a route for very effective pain relief that can be used throughout your labor. The anesthesiologist can regulate the effects by changing the type, amount, and strength of the medication. This is vital because as your labor progresses and your baby goes into your birth canal, the dose you’ve been getting might no longer be adequate, or you might suddenly feel pain in a different area.
The drug only works on specific areas, so you’ll be awake and alert during labor and birth. And because you’re pain-free, you can rest (or even sleep!) as your cervix dilates and preserve your energy for when it comes time to push.
Unlike systemic narcotics, only a small amount of medication reaches your baby. When the epidural is in position, it can be used to provide anesthesia if you require a c-section or if you’re having your tubes tied after delivery.