Are There Any Risks Associated with Epidural Blocks?

Neither epidural blocks nor the combined spinal-epidural technique are risk-free. Because many of these risks have serious consequences, the of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has issued the following statement: "Persons administering or supervising obstetric anesthesia should be qualified to manage the infrequent but occasionally life-threatening complications of major regional anesthesia... Mastering and retaining the skills and knowledge necessary to manage these complications requires adequate training and frequent application." Low Blood Pressure Abnormally low blood pressure, referred to as hypotension, occurs in about 10% of women receiving epidural blocks. Fortunately, there are usually no harmful effects. Hypotension occurs because the epidural block affects not only the sensory fibers that carry pain signals, but also the nerve fibers that control muscle contractions inside blood vessels. This causes blood vessels to relax, resulting in lower blood pressure. If ...  more