Why
don't doctors give anesthesia during delivery? Pain relief during labor and
delivery is available in the United States and many other countries, and is at
the discretion of the delivering patient and the Obstetrician, with the
involvement of an available Anesthesia provider.
Unless
there are complicating factors, the patient determines the type of pain relief
during labor and delivery, including the option of having nothing at all.
The
most effective form of pain relief or "anesthesia" is an
"Epidural," which is the administration of a reversible
nerve-blocking local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, and/or a longer-acting
medication (bupivicaine, ropivacaine), via a small catheter placed safely near
the spinal cord.
A
fully functional Epidural is the safest way to provide effective pain relief
with the least risk to the mother and baby, with virtually no medication
present in either's bloodstream.
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There
are risks associated with the placement and administration of the Epidural, but
the risks are significantly outweighed by the benefits when under the care of a
skilled and highly trained Anesthesiologist or CRNA.
Other
forms of pain relief include the intravenous administration of various
medications.
Aside
from pain relief, one of the benefits of using an Epidural is that if an
emergency c-section is required, full surgical anesthesia can be administered
within minutes, saving the mother from having to undergo general anesthesia and
being unaware of the birth.
Walking
into the room of a woman in active labor, experiencing such severe discomfort
during a contraction that conversation must be paused with each one, and
walking out 15 minutes later after hearing her ask "did I just have a
contraction???" has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being an
Anesthesiologist over the years.
The
outpouring of joyful emotion by the parents during delivery, during a c-section
with a "perfect" spinal or epidural block and no intravenous drugs at
all, is also enjoyable.
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FAQs Related To Why Don't Doctors Give
Anesthesia During Delivery
Can you be under anesthesia while giving
birth?
There
are several types of drugs that may be used during your child's birth. They are
as follows: narcotic pain relievers, general anesthesia, and regional
anesthetics. Analgesics, or pain relievers, reduce the sensation of pain. The
mother can sleep during the delivery thanks to general anesthesia.
Do they numb you if you tear during birth?
If
you've had a minor tear, a local anaesthetic will be administered to numb the
area so you don't feel any pain during the procedure. While the stitching is
being done, you may need to put your legs in stirrups. The midwife or doctor
should ensure that you are at ease.
Can they numb you before giving birth?
An
epidural delivers anesthesia that causes numbness to spread from your belly
button to your upper legs. It enables you to remain awake and alert during
labor, as well as to feel pressure. When it comes time to give birth, being
able to feel second-stage labor pressure allows you to push.
Why are C-sections not done under general
anesthesia?
In
most cases, having a c-section under Spinal Anesthesia or Epidural Anesthesia
(rather than General Anesthesia) is preferable because it involves less risk
and allows you to be awake during your baby's birth.
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How much pain does a woman feel during
childbirth?
The
most common description of the level of pain was extreme menstrual cramps (45
percent), followed by bad back pain (16 percent) and a broken bone (15
percent).
Can I request general anesthesia for a
C-section?
You
may have a choice of anesthetic for a planned C-section, but you should be
aware that a spinal block or epidural are generally regarded as the safest
options for both you and your baby. General anesthesia may be required in an
emergency or when bleeding occurs.
Can you be put to sleep during C-section?
During
a caesarean section, a general anaesthetic can be used to put you to sleep (C-section).
Your partner is unlikely to be able to accompany you to the operating room. A
general anaesthetic is usually only used in an emergency.
How long do you bleed after birth?
Bleeding
usually lasts four to six weeks after your baby is born, but it can last up to
12 weeks. If you are concerned, you should consult a medical professional.
Bleeding will be heavy and red to brownish red at first. Over time, the color
will lighten and flow.
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Can you give birth silently?
While
there is no scientific evidence to support the notion that silent birth
protects the baby's psyche, it has long been recognized that women labor most
effectively in calm, supportive environments. And, contrary to popular belief,
it is possible to have a silent (or mostly silent) birth.
Why don't they give anesthesia while giving
birth?
The
decrease in uterine blood flow and neonatal depression is the most concerning
for the baby. The prolonged neonatal effects, according to Danforth's
Obstetrics and Gynecology, have virtually eliminated the use of general
anesthesia during labor and birth.
