Spinal anesthesia might seem like a huge and scary thing to some moms-to-be, but honestly, it’s not all that. Nowadays, with advances in medicine, anesthetics are more tailored and comfortable for use. Additionally, depending on the type of delivery you choose, the kind of anesthesia you receive will vary.
For C-sections, it is usually spinal anesthesia, although in my last delivery, the anesthesia was combined—part spinal and part epidural1. Without a doubt, it was the best recovery I had out of the three deliveries. But being scared is normal, especially when it’s your first delivery and you enter the operating room feeling very anxious and not really knowing what to expect. But know that all the doctors are very well prepared for the procedure, okay? I also remember that the anesthesiologist asked a bunch of questions, which I believe is standard procedure.
How Is Spinal Anesthesia Administered?
This is a common question with an easy answer. Spinal anesthesia is administered to the lower back. I, myself, had it done in my lumbar region, so it wouldn’t rise up too high during the surgery.
Does Spinal Anesthesia Hurt?
Usually, spinal anesthesia doesn’t hurt, because before administering it, the doctor applies a topical anesthetic that reduces or even prevents the pain. Next, a very thin, long, but flexible needle is inserted between the vertebrae in the spine, into the cerebrospinal fluid. Some women feel a warmth spreading down their legs, others feel heaviness, but there are also those who say they didn’t feel anything.
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Spinal Anesthesia Side Effects
The side effects of spinal anesthesia may be felt while still in the delivery room: low blood pressure, feeling like you can’t breathe, heaviness in the chest, and dizziness.2 But keep in mind, the doctor is right there to help, and don’t worry, it’s only temporary.
Other possible side effects of spinal anesthesia include tingling after surgery, shivering without feeling cold, and itching or skin irritation a few hours after the anesthesia is given. Some moms feel really cold, which is also common. I experienced most of these symptoms myself, but on different occasions, not all at once. I can assure you it’s definitely not the end of the world—it goes away quickly!
Drawbacks of Spinal Anesthesia
One drawback of spinal anesthesia is when it comes time for breastfeeding3. Do you know why? Because most of the time, after surgery the mother can’t lift her head, due to the risk of post-spinal headache. The headache is strong and frequent, which is why mothers are told not to lift their torso to avoid this discomfort. After spinal anesthesia, rest and following postoperative instructions are important.
Recently, the recommended rest time has decreased from 24 to 12 hours, but sometimes only 6 hours are required. There are also several measures that can be taken if the mother develops a post-spinal headache, all of which are very effective.
Spinal anesthesia is indicated for C-sections, but it’s also an option for vaginal deliveries because it takes effect immediately. In the end, spinal anesthesia might seem like the villain of childbirth, but it’s actually great. Talk with your anesthesiologist beforehand and clear up all your doubts. You’ll definitely feel more at ease!
Readers’ Questions:
Can spinal anesthesia cause lasting problems?
Depending on the situation, yes, there can be aftereffects or side effects. It’s not very common, but one of the side effects from administering spinal anesthesia between the vertebrae, for example, is chronic headaches. In the past, the risks included the possible loss of movement in the legs, due to the thickness of the needle used. Nowadays, since the needle is very thin, this risk is virtually zero.
See also: Cesarean delivery I had!
Photo: Andres Rueda
