While every woman's labor is different, there is no getting around the fact that there is going to be some pain involved. Luckily, there are many pain relief options available, each working in a slightly different way. Pregnant women should talk...
An epidural, which is administered through a small catheter placed in the back, is a type of pain relief often used during labor and delivery to help block the sensation of labor pains. This is often a healthier or less stressful way to endure the...
An epidural is a common pain medication during childbirth. This anesthesia provides pain relief to the region below the belly button. A large needle is inserted into the membrane over the spinal cord, which delivers the medication to your body. An...
The pain of childbirth causes fear in many expectant mothers. Knowing your options for relieving the pain and making the delivery easier prepares you to make decisions when you go into labor. A birth plan offers a way to document your preferences...
An epidural is a type of anesthesia. Epidurals block the nerve impulses from the lower spinal segments, resulting in decreased sensation in the lower half of the body, states the American Pregnancy Association. Epidurals provide pain relief but...
Epidural anesthesia is a form of regional anesthesia. A catheter is placed into the epidural space which blocks the transmission of nerves by the spinal cord causing a decrease in pain and loss of sensation. A small amount of local anesthetic...
More than 4 million babies are born in the United States each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of these pregnancies are healthy and low-risk, thanks to modern advances in prenatal care. Those same...
Most full-term babies will take a head-down position before labor. However, approximately 3 percent of full-term babies are in a breech position -- head up instead of head down -- when labor begins. Because the pressure of your baby's head on your...
Hemorrhoids are defined as a cluster of inflamed, swollen veins in the area around the anus, or rectum, states the Mayo Clinic. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are often caused by excess straining during evacuation, but may also be caused by an...
Hormonal imbalances can lead to a myriad of health concerns. Irregular menstrual cycles, fatigue, weight gain and many other symptoms may be indicative of an imbalance. Anytime hormones need to be regulated, especially during menopause,...
Premature babies are those born before 38 weeks of gestation. They may suffer health problems such as low birth weight, trouble latching on to the breast or breathing difficulties. Premature babies are usually required to stay in the hospital...
Epidural anesthesia, also referred to as epidural analgesia or epidural block, is widely used in a variety of clinical settings. It may be used for any procedure beneath the nipple line during inpatient and outpatient surgery, during diagnostic...
Though delivering your child is one of life's most beautiful experiences, it can be stressful and painful. Being prepared is one of the best ways to reduce stress in the delivery room. There are also techniques to make child delivery easier on...
If you're pregnant, chances are you are at least a little concerned about the impending pain of baby delivery. Since labor varies from woman to woman and baby to baby, you won't know how painful your childbirth will be until it begins. However,...
