An epidural is a regional anesthetic that is used during childbirth. It involves injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space around the spinal cord. This numbs the lower body so that the mother does not feel pain during childbirth.
While epidurals are generally safe, there are some risks and side effects associated with them. The team is here to discuss what these risks are and what to do if a doctor failed to provide a safe epidural.
Side Effects & Risks
The most common side-effect is a temporary drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or fainting. There is also a small risk of spinal headache, which can be treated with bed rest and fluids. Although epidurals are designed to make labor less painful for the mother, it does make it more difficult to push while giving birth.
In rare cases, the epidural needle may cause a spinal cord injury or infection, leading to paralysis. It’s essential to note that minimal epidurals have been linked to maternal death. Overall, however, epidurals are considered to be a safe and effective way to manage pain during labor. If you have any concerns about epidurals, be sure to discuss them with your doctor or midwife beforehand.
Sadly, complications can still arise, putting the mother and baby at risk. If you or a loved one were recently injured after an epidural went wrong, it’s essential to contact our legal office as soon as possible.
Kentucky Birth Injury Lawyers
Epidural injuries can be devastating for both mothers and babies. If you or your child has been injured as a result of an epidural, we can help. Our experienced legal team will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact our birth injury lawyers at (502) 244-7772 or visit our Contact Us page to fill out a consultation request form.