How do I choose whether to have an intrathecal or epidural for labor pain?
This decision is based on many factors. It is a good idea to discuss the options with your obstetrician, family practitioner, or midwife, as well as an anesthesiologist. In many cases this can be done early in labor, or even before you go into labor. The following description about these two methods may help guide your choice, but it is important to remain flexible, because factors that favor one method over another can change during the course of labor. Both intrathecals and epidurals involve giving a combination of local anesthetic (numbing mediation) and narcotic pain medication into the lower back near the spine. This allows the medications to work on the spinal cord or spinal nerves. Because very small doses are given, both have minimal effects on the baby. Both of these methods cause your blood vessels to dilate, which can cause low blood pressure. For this reason, you are monitored very closely for at least 20 to 30 minutes after the medication is given, and at regular intervals
