Dr. Rowan Molnar: Understand the Epidural Anaesthesia

Epidural anaesthesia is a type of regional anaesthesia that provides pain relief by blocking the nerve impulses from the lower spinal segments. Epidural techniques frequently involve injection of drugs through a catheter placed into the epidural space. They are classified as local anaesthetics and are often delivered in combination with opioids or along with epinephrine or morphine to prolong the epidural’s effect. Epidurals are given intravenously prior to active labour. A specialist anaesthetist, obstetrician or nurse anaesthetist usually administers the epidural while the mother lies on her left side or is in a sitting position in order to increase the effectiveness of the epidural.

What mothers to be must know about epidural anaesthesia

As we know one of the most popular pain relief methods during labour is epidural anaesthesia. Women that wish to prepare themselves for childbirth ought to learn as much as possible about various pain relief methods so that they are better prepared to handle labour and the birth process. Over 50 percent of women use epidural anaesthesia when giving birth at hospitals. Dr. Rowan Molnar, the Staff Specialist Anaesthetist at Launceston General Hospital, Tasmania, Australia highlights the different types of epidurals and their benefits and risks.

Epidural analgesia post surgery

Epidural analgesia has been demonstrated to have several benefits after surgery, which includes: effective analgesia without the need for systemic opioids. The incidence of postoperative respiratory problems and chest infections is reduced. The incidence of postoperative myocardial infarction ("heart attack") is reduced. The stress response to surgery is reduced. Motility of the intestines is improved by blockade of the sympathetic nervous system. Use of epidural analgesia during surgery reduces blood transfusion requirements. Despite these benefits, no survival benefit has been proven for high-risk individuals.

As we know one of the most popular pain relief methods during labour is epidural anaesthesia. Women that wish to prepare themselves for childbirth ought to learn as much as possible about various pain relief methods so that they are better prepared to handle labour and the birth process. Over 50 percent of women use epidural anaesthesia when giving birth at hospitals. Dr. Rowan Molnar, the Staff Specialist Anaesthetist at Launceston General Hospital, Tasmania, Australia highlights the different types of epidurals and their benefits and risks.