Pain Control All laboring patients are entitled to pain control and our team of anesthesiologists will work with you to find the best option for you. We support women who choose a medicated or unmedicated birth approach. Our anesthesiologists are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Anesthesia will be administered upon your request, however, be aware that you may need to wait if there are several patients requesting pain control at the same time or if another patient is experiencing an emergency. We suggest that you ask to speak with an anesthesia provider when you are admitted to ensure that your pain control needs are met in a timely manner.
Pain Control Options Systemic analgesics Systemic analgesics act on the whole nervous system, rather than a specific area, to lessen pain. They will not cause you to lose consciousness. These medications often are used during early labor to allow you to rest. Systemic analgesics usually are given as a shot. Depending on the type of medication, the shot is given into either a muscle or a vein. Systemic pain medicine can have side effects, such as nausea, feeling drowsy, or having trouble concentrating. Sometimes another drug is given along with a systemic analgesic to relieve nausea. Systemic analgesics can affect the baby’s heart rate temporarily.
Regional analgesia Spinal block A spinal block – like an epidural block – is a form of regional pain relief. A small amount of medication is injected into the spinal fluid. It starts to relieve pain quickly, and it lasts for a few hours. This is the most common method used for cesarean deliveries as it allows you to remain awake but causes a loss of sensation in the lower half of your body. You will be numb after receiving a spinal block and should not feel any pain, however, you may experience a feeling of pressure during your delivery. You will not be able to walk around when a spinal is in effect. 58
Labor and delivery
