The huge surge of oxytocin that happens in the last moments of birth is also reduced when an epidural is in place. When you have an epidural in place, oxytocin production is reduced or does not rise. As contractions get longer and stronger, more oxytocin is released. During labour, epidurals aim to provide pain relief rather than complete lack of feeling in the lower part of the body.ĭuring natural labour, your body produces oxytocin which is a hormone that stimulates contractions. What Is An Epidural Injection?Įpidural aneasthesia blocks pain in a particular part of the body by blocking the nerve impulses from the lower spine. There are many reasons why an epidural seems like an attractive idea, so it’s a good idea to know the risks and benefits of this procedure well before your labour begins.
During the 1970s synthetic oxytocin was discovered, which meant doctors were able to speed up contractions if this side effect occurred. But it wasn’t for another 70 years before epidurals became incredibly popular amongst childbearing women.Įarly use of the epidural showed around 40% of women would experience a reduction in contractions, making labour a much longer and difficult process. Over 50% of women giving birth at hospital will have an epidural at some stage during their labour.Įpidurals were first used for pain relief during labour in the early 1900s.
The most popular form of pain relief used in labour today is the epidural.
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