Walking Epidural And Its Effect On Childbirth

The main benefit of a walking epidural is that the  pain is reduced without paralyzing the mother. That way, she can cooperate in the birth process with greater relief.

This type of anesthesia is also known as the movable epidural. The expectant mother can move, but the pain in the abdomen is reduced.

The body does not fall asleep, as with other forms of anesthesia. This can be very useful in the first three hours of birth.

Doctors say that a  walking epidural is just as safe as the more well-known epidural. The great advantage is that the mother can achieve the most comfortable position of press from.

It is also very positive psychologically  as the woman feels involved and has autonomy in this unforgettable moment. 

The application technique

The procedure is performed comparable to the traditional epidural. The difference between them is the medicine and the dose administered.

The patient sits down and forms a “C” with his back, and the  injection is applied between the vertebrae. A needle is placed in a catheter through which the anesthesia will pass.

Benefits of a walking epidural at birth

• The ability to move. Once applied, the woman will not lose the feeling in her lower limbs. Being able to move without feeling the pain from the contractions helps the enlargement to appear faster.
• Greater comfort. By having control over her lower areas, the mother can position herself as she wishes. That way, she participates in the birth in a way that makes her feel more secure.

• Greater ease of pressure. One of the hardest, and most beautiful, phases is finding the strength to help the baby out. It has been proven that a walking epidural makes this moment easier for the mother.
• It is fast efficient. Once given, a walking epidural has a faster effect than the traditional epidural.
• Less urine retention. The fact that the muscles are less hampered means that it is easier to urinate.
• Addition in different phases. This anesthesia can be given at any time during the birth. It will be a specialist or a nurse who decides when to use it, in consultation with the expectant mother.

Disadvantages of a walking epidural

• The catheter cannot be repositioned.
• It causes more nausea than a traditional epidural. 
• Some people think that there may be minor tremors in the legs which cause unwanted blows.

• The opioid used can make the skin itch.
• Headache.

Although it seems miraculous, the truth is that this type of anesthesia, can not always be given. As with anything else related to health, your doctor should evaluate you to determine what type of anesthesia is appropriate.

Furthermore,  when the birth is already in an advanced stage, it is not recommended that one get a walking epidural. In those cases, it is preferable to use a traditional epidural.

Can it be obtained at all hospitals?

Some hospitals do not have this type of anesthesia yet,  typically because a special protocol is required. The hospital needs more staff and resources for births where the walking epidural is used.

After the anesthesia has been given and has begun its effect,  the patient must be evaluated to ensure that she has full control over her legs. This is done through specific techniques, and cannot be done anywhere.

It is always necessary for the mother to be accompanied by another adult whom she trusts. In addition to the psychological support that is extremely needed this day, this person will be a great help through this process.

An unexpected effect from anesthesia can cause discomfort or unhappiness. The security of having someone next to you can be fundamental,

As with all births, it is crucial to have control over the fetus.  While all the circumstances are supervised, risks can be prevented and the doctors will always be the ones deciding what is best for mother and child.

Being informed and prepared is a commitment that all parents should strive for. Their participation in everything that surrounds the birth should be an act of love and responsibility.