I could go on and on about epidurals and why I think they are silly and dangerous. But I think this intervention really just speaks best for itself. Once again, I could not make this stuff up.
Here is a quote from Wikipedia about the most common drugs used in epidurals-
"For a prolonged effect, a continuous infusion of drugs may be employed. A common solution for epidural infusion in childbirth or for post-operative analgesia is 0.2% ropivacaine or 0.125% bupivacaine, with 2 μg/mL of fentanyl added. This solution is infused at a rate between 4 and 14 mL/hour, following a loading dose to initiate the nerve block."
And the package insert for bupivacaine:
"Local anesthetics rapidly cross the placenta, and when used for epidural, caudal, or pudendal block anesthesia, can cause varying degrees of maternal, fetal, and neonatal toxicity."
YES folks- it crosses the placenta and don't ever let anybody tell you it doesn't.
"Maternal hypotension has resulted from regional anesthesia. Local anesthetics produce vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerves. Elevating the patient’s legs and positioning her on her left side will help prevent decreases in blood pressure. The fetal heart rate also should be monitored continuously and electronic fetal monitoring is highly advisable."
YES it can cause hypotension and YES you NEED to be continuously monitored because---IT IS DANGEROUS.
"Epidural, caudal, or pudendal anesthesia may alter the forces of parturition through changes in uterine contractility or maternal expulsive efforts. Epidural anesthesia has been reported to prolong the second stage of labor by removing the parturient’s reflex urge to bear down or by interfering with motor function. The use of obstetrical anesthesia may increase the need for forceps assistance."
YES- it is harder to push out your own baby when you can't feel a dang thing.
"Bupivacaine has been reported to be excreted in human milk suggesting that the nursing infant could be theoretically exposed to a dose of the drug. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Bupivacaine, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or not administer Bupivacaine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother."
Yes it comes out in your milk!
"Until further experience is gained in pediatric patients younger than 12 years, administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride in this age group is not recommended."
NO it is not recommended for children under the age of 12- what does this mean for babies? Hmmm.....
Know the actual risks and benefits of your birth choices BEFORE you choose them.