Experiencing labor with an epidural can feel quite surreal. As you lie there, exposed and vulnerable, you have medical staff urging you to “push.” But how can you push when you can’t feel anything? If you’ve had an epidural, it might feel like trying to summon a mythical creature. Enter the “walking epidural.” Though not exactly a revolutionary idea, walking epidurals are gaining traction as a means to alleviate labor pain while still allowing some sensation.
But what is a walking epidural? How does it differ from a traditional epidural? And what are the advantages and disadvantages of opting for one? Let’s clarify everything.
What is a Walking Epidural?
Also known as a combined spinal-epidural (CSE), a walking epidural is a method of pain relief during labor. Essentially, it involves administering a lighter anesthetic at less frequent intervals. This approach dulls contraction pain without completely numbing all sensations.
An anesthesiologist administers a walking epidural, which typically takes about 10 minutes. Initially, the back is cleaned, followed by numbing the injection site with a local anesthetic. The needle and catheter are then inserted between contractions, allowing the laboring individual to remain still.
Walking Epidural vs. Traditional Epidural
The primary difference between a walking epidural and a traditional epidural lies in the dosage and frequency of anesthetic administered. But what does this mean for the birthing person? Scary Mommy consulted with Laura Fields, a labor and delivery nurse and creator of the insightful resource Mommy Labor Nurse. “The procedures for receiving both types of epidurals are similar,” Fields explains. “The only distinction is the needle placement and the medication used.”
Traditional Epidural
If you’re not keen on feeling pain, a traditional epidural can be quite effective. You won’t sense much in your lower body, making it necessary to rely on your partner or hospital staff for movement. While this provides relief from labor pains, it can also feel somewhat disorienting.
“In a traditional epidural, medication is injected into the epidural space outside the spinal cord and fluid,” Fields clarifies. “A small catheter remains in place to administer pain relief throughout labor. A traditional epidural numbs the body from the belly button down, often leaving the legs feeling heavy and limiting movement.”
Walking Epidural
If the thought of losing the ability to feel when to push is concerning, a walking epidural may be worth considering.
“The medications used in walking epidurals are typically administered in lower doses, allowing for greater mobility during labor,” Fields notes. “The numbing agent is also injected into a different area of the spinal column, providing almost immediate pain relief. Similar to a traditional epidural, a catheter is left in place for continuous medication delivery.”
Advantages of Walking Epidurals
For those who have experienced a traditional epidural, labor can often feel bewildering. Walking epidurals can help you stay more connected to your body, leading to several benefits:
- Quick onset of pain relief.
- Greater freedom of movement during labor.
- The ability to change positions more frequently, which can help the baby settle into a favorable position.
- Shorter labor duration due to increased mobility.
- Reduced likelihood of needing interventions like forceps or vacuum assistance.
- More effective pushing during the second stage of labor because you can still feel contractions.
Disadvantages of Walking Epidurals
One significant drawback is the potential misconception surrounding the term “walking” epidural. Most hospitals still restrict movement, making complete mobility unlikely. You may still feel clumsy and experience a diminished sense of your lower half, posing safety risks.
Additional considerations include:
- The medication isn’t as potent, so you may still experience pain with contractions.
- Risks similar to traditional epidurals apply, such as decreased blood pressure and potential complications like itching or nausea.
- There’s a higher chance of experiencing a spinal headache post-delivery.
- Most women with walking epidurals are still advised against walking around for safety reasons.
- Epidurals can sometimes prolong labor; studies indicate a potential two-hour difference in the second stage of labor between those with and without an epidural.
Do You Need a Catheter with a Walking Epidural?
Even with a walking epidural, a catheter is typically necessary. Since movement is limited, the catheter helps manage urination, keeping you more comfortable during labor. While catheters can seem intimidating, having one placed after the epidural is effective and allows you to focus on labor.
How Long Does a Walking Epidural Last?
A walking epidural can remain effective for several days, provided the catheter is properly placed and the right medication dosage is administered. Fortunately, labor usually doesn’t last that long, so you can expect your walking epidural to last as long as needed.
Why Haven’t You Heard About This Before?
Many hospitals and healthcare providers may not offer walking epidurals widely, possibly because most laboring individuals prefer a full epidural for complete pain relief. According to Fields, many women end up transitioning from a walking to a full epidural for total comfort.
Her advice? Discuss all available options with your healthcare provider during prenatal visits. Not all hospitals provide the same pain relief choices, so it’s crucial to understand your options before labor begins. For more insights on this topic, check out this related article on walking epidurals and expert perspectives.
For further information on pregnancy, visit this excellent resource.
Summary
Walking epidurals offer a unique way to manage labor pain while still allowing for some sensation and movement. By understanding the differences and potential benefits and drawbacks, you can make informed decisions about your pain relief options during labor.