Painless Normal Delivery
One of the most severe forms of pain is the pain that a woman experiences during the process of childbirth. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most severe, it is believed to be 8 to 10. In the earlier days, a number of women would die during childbirth and survival was considered as a second lease of life. This belief has however, changed with the advancements in medical science. The delivery has now become an almost painless procedure.
What are its benefits?
The mother has a painless delivery and is conscious and able to see the process of delivery. Significant relief from the painful experience of childbirth. The pain induces secretion of stress hormones in the mother, which adversely affects both the mother and the child. Blood pressure is better controlled using this procedure.
- Additional instruments can be used during the delivery if required without the need for additional anesthesia.
- If required, the procedure can be converted to a cesarean section too, by adding an epidural catheter.
- The duration of childbirth has been significantly decreased.
- Suitable for patients who have preeclampsia and heart disease
Certain indications
In the following cases, the doctor would advise the mother to go for a painless delivery Medical conditions like preeclampsia, high BP, or other heart conditions Subsequent births after having had a cesarean section (VBAC – vaginal birth after cesarean) People who have previously had prolonged or complicated labor, a painless delivery is easy on both the mother and the child
When it should be best avoided
- In some cases, like the ones listed below, the painless delivery should be avoided
- Women with bleeding disorders.
- Women who are on blood thinners like aspirin, heparin, etc.
- Women who have had prior low back surgeries
- Women with neurological conditions
