The Walking Epidural And Its Influence On Childbirth
Getting an intermediate anesthesia to be used in deliveries has been a goal of many studies and research. One of the great achievements in this regard has been walking epidural anesthesia, whose main advantage is to reduce pain without paralyzing the mother. In this way, you can collaborate in the birth process with greater peace of mind.
This anesthesia is also known as the walking epidural. Among other things, because the woman in labor can move, and what is inhibited is abdominal pain.
The body does not go to sleep like other types of anesthesia, and this can be extremely helpful in the first three hours of labor.
Doctors assure that epidural wanking is as safe as the most conventional or popularly known ones. The great advantage is that the mother can adopt the most comfortable position to push.
Psychologically it is also very positive, since the woman feels a participant and has autonomy in that unforgettable moment.
Application technique
It is a procedure similar to that carried out in the traditional epidural. The difference is the medicine and the dose administered; the patient sits up and forms a “C” with her back, and the injection is applied between the vertebrae, where the needle places the catheter through which the anesthetic will pass.
Advantages of the walking epidural in childbirth
- Ability to move Once applied, the woman does not lose sensitivity of her lower limbs. The fact of moving without feeling the pain caused by contractions, helps a faster dilation.
- Greater convenience. By having control of her lower areas, the mother can accommodate as she wishes. That way, she participates in the delivery in the way that makes her feel more secure.
- Easier to push. One of the hardest and most beautiful phases at the same time is the force to be carried out to help the baby out. It is proven that with the walking epidural this moment is easier for the mother.
- Quick effect. Once in place, the walking epidural has an impact in fewer minutes than the traditional one.
- Less urinary retention. The fact that fewer muscle stimulants are inhibited does not cause difficulties with urination.
- Application in different phases. This anesthesia can be applied at any time during labor. It will be the specialist health personnel, in conjunction with the mother, who will decide when to use it.
Disadvantages of the walking epidural
- The catheter cannot be repositioned.
- It causes more nausea than the traditional epidural.
- Some believe that there may be a minimal impact on the legs that cause an unwanted blow.
- Administered opioids cause itchy skin.
- Headaches
Although it seems miraculous, the truth is that this type of anesthesia can not always be administered. Like everything related to health, evaluations must be carried out to determine what anesthesia to apply.
In addition, when labor is already in an advanced stage, it is not recommended to administer the walking epidural; in those cases it is preferable to use the traditional one.
Do they apply it in all medical centers?
Some hospitals still do not incorporate this type of anesthesia, in many cases because a special protocol is required; the centers need more staff and resources for deliveries with walking epidurals.
The anesthesia is applied and it is waited for it to take effect. Before allowing the patient to get up, check that she has full control of her legs. This is done through specific techniques that cannot be done in all places.
It is always necessary for the mother to be accompanied by a trusted adult. Beyond the psychological support so necessary for that day, it will be of great help in transfers. Any unforeseen effect of anesthesia can cause unfavorable discomfort or accident. The security of having someone by your side can be essential.
As in all deliveries, fetal control is vital. As long as all circumstances are under supervision, risks can be inhibited and doctors will always guarantee the best for mother and child.
But being informed and prepared is a commitment that parents must assume; Your participation in everything that surrounds the delivery should be an act of love and responsibility.
