The Secret Side Effects of Epidural Women Don’t Talk About

Toyin Lawani recently raised concerns on social media about the side effects of epidural injections during childbirth. She shared her personal experience of suffering from severe back pain and difficulty standing straight after receiving an epidural. 

Lawani also mentioned that some of her friends experienced similar issues, which has sparked a wide conversation about the potential drawbacks of this common pain relief method.

Epidurals are commonly used for pain relief during childbirth and certain surgeries, as they block pain in specific regions of the body. Although epidurals are generally safe, they are not without risks and side effects.

Here are some of the less commonly discussed side effects of epidurals:

Lower Back Pain 

Some women may experience lingering lower back pain at the site where the epidural was administered. This discomfort can vary in duration and intensity.

Headaches 

A post-dural puncture headache can occur if the needle accidentally punctures the membrane that surrounds the spinal cord, causing spinal fluid to leak. This type of headache can be quite severe and worsens when standing or sitting up.

Nerve Damage 

Though very rare, nerve damage in the area where the epidural was inserted can occur. This can lead to pain or numbness that is usually temporary but may be permanent in very rare cases.

Difficulty Urinating 

Epidurals can affect the nerves that control the bladder, sometimes making it difficult to urinate after delivery. This usually resolves within a few hours but might require temporary use of a catheter.

Fever

A rise in body temperature is a lesser-known side effect of epidurals. While it’s typically mild, it can be concerning as it may lead to further interventions such as additional testing in the newborn.

Itching 

Some women may experience itching, which can be intense. This is usually due to the medications used in the epidural rather than the procedure itself.

Blood Pressure Drop

Epidurals can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. This can be dangerous as it might reduce the blood flow to the baby, necessitating medications to stabilize the mother’s blood pressure.

Emotional Effects 

Some women report feeling disconnected from the birthing experience or feeling a lack of control, which can impact their emotional well-being.

Concerns About Long-Term Effects

There is some concern about potential long-term effects like persistent numbness or breathing difficulties. However, long-term back pain directly caused by the epidural is very rare.

Additionally, recent studies from Canada and Denmark have found no link between epidurals and autism spectrum disorders in children, challenging some earlier concerns.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

If you have concerns about the risks or side effects associated with epidurals, it’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific health needs and help you make an informed decision about using this form of pain management.