Questions about Class 105: Medical Procedures and Medications in Labour

All medications have some risks associated with them. Narcotics, regardless of the way they are administered (IM, IV, or via epidural), can make baby drowsy., affect his breathing at birth, and his ability to sck. During labor your caregivers will give you information on pain relief options for your particular situation.

Induction may be suggested if there are risks to either the mom or baby to continue with the pregnancy. High blood pressure, decreased fetal movements, diabetes that can't be controlled are examples of situations where induction might be indicated. Induction may also be suggested if a mom's membranes have ruptured and there is a risk of infection, or if a woman is one to two weeks past her due date.

In general, Cesarean birth is considered riskier for both mom and babe then vaginal birth. The SOGC does not advocate Cesarean birth for all women, as it has short and long term effects on the recovery and future reproductive health of the mom. Babies born to moms that have elective cesareans have a greater difficulty adjusting to life outside the uterus and may need to be cared for in the special care or intensive care nursery.

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Research shows that there are a number of things that you can do to reduce your risk of needing a cesarean:

1. Move around in labor
2. Stay home in early labor
3. Try to avoid pain medication in early labor
4. Avoid unnecessary induction
5. Avoid unnecessary continuous fetal monitoring
6. Have a doula
7. Be informed
8. Communicate with your health care provider

Epidural anesthesia is often given when the mother is 3 - 6 cm dilated, and is having regular, painful contractions.

Epidural anesthesia can be given at anytime in labor. If the baby's head is crowning there is usually not enough time for the women to receive it.

Part of birth planning is discussing possible procedures with your caregiver before you go into labor, so you will know each other's opinions on issues which are important to you. In certain situations it may be possible to get a second opinion before a procedure is done, however if it is an emergency, it may be necessary to make some decisions quickly. A good question to ask is: "Is this an emergency?" that way, yoyu will know if you have time to get more information. You can ask for as much information as you need to help you decide about procedures and tests.

Episiotomy is not usually done on a routine basis. It may be needed in some situations when your baby needs to be born quickly. To reduce the changes of needing an episiotomy, learn about positions for labor that make use of gravity and allow the perineal tissue to stretch normally. Pelvic floor exercises can help ou be aware of oyur perineum and how to relax it for pushing. Listen to your caregiver's instructions during the pushing stage so that your baby's head is born gently. There is also some research that perineal massage prenatally can help decrease the risk of episiotomy or tear.

The types of pain medication available do not interact with each other in a way that is harmful to mom or baby. If you choose to use a narcotic and find that it does not give you the relief you need, you can have epidural anesthesia