Childbirth is truly a milestone in a person’s life. Depending on how a woman gives birth, even more so, because if anesthesia is needed during the procedure, it may cause some type of postpartum anesthesia reaction that we will never forget. However, nowadays, whether it is vaginal birth or cesarean section anesthesia, they are very safe. Previously, when it was necessary to use certain chemicals that could cause allergies and some reactions with uncertain outcomes, nowadays, thanks to the advancement of medicine, anesthetics have become very effective, safe for pregnancy, and almost without reactions for both mother and baby.
However, a postpartum anesthesia reaction does exist, although less frequent and less intense it’s true. We should remember that most symptoms after the procedure are related to the anesthesia, but it is not always the cause. But the discomforts that may arise can make many women postpone receiving anesthesia during a vaginal birth, or even rethink a cesarean due to fear of anesthesia. Mainly because of the myths that have arisen around the anesthesia procedure.
What Types of Anesthesia Are There?
The most commonly used anesthetics in childbirth are spinal anesthesia and epidural anesthesia. Spinal is more frequent in cesarean deliveries, as it completely blocks the sensation in the area to be cut during the procedure, as well as temporarily paralyzes the lower limbs1. On the other hand, the epidural has a milder block; with it, any procedure can be done without pain for the patient, but it is still possible to feel some movement, although faintly2.
General anesthesia is only used in extreme cases when the patient’s body does not accept spinal or epidural anesthesia. The block anesthetics, spinal and epidural, are used so the mother can stay awake during childbirth, while general anesthesia makes the patient sleep during the procedure. So, now that we know the anesthetics used, what are the typical3 and expected reactions after anesthesia?
Headaches
This is a very common reaction, although the incidence of post-spinal headache has decreased. Headache happens not because of the anesthesia itself, also not because of raising the head, but from the thickness of the needle that injects the substance into the spine. Even though it’s uncomfortable, post-spinal headache is harmless and is treated symptomatically. Treatment includes plenty of hydration, rest, and appropriate pain relief for each case. Headache after anesthesia occurs mostly in young women.
Itching
The body does not react exactly to the anesthesia. However, to control pain during the procedure, small amounts of morphine are sometimes used, and this is what causes the itching after birth. The itching after birth may affect parts of the body or all over. It’s also possible to feel sensitivity where clothing touches, on the bra, at the waistband, clothing elastics, etc. It is common for a woman to feel an intense itch on the face, especially between the nose, chin, cheeks and forehead. Certainly, this reaction will pass a few hours after the medication wears off.
Dizziness
After a few hours of having anesthesia, you will likely get up to take a shower, etc. However, dizziness can be quite bothersome. You may have intense dizzy spells to the point of not being able to stand up. This post-anesthesia effect is more common in women over age 35, but it can also appear in people with a history of labyrinthitis. The effect happens after long hours lying down. The fluid that helps balance in the body is greatly affected by staying in the same position, and dizziness is accentuated by the anesthesia.
Shivering
Is it cold here or is it just me? Uncontrollable tremors after anesthesia are common, both with spinal and epidural. The shaking doesn’t happen from cold, but because the anesthetic affects the nervous part of the body. Since it acts by taking away sensation, it can occasionally cause small spasms for a short period after administration. It’s also possible to shiver due to heat loss that anesthesia causes in the body. So shivering from cold is absolutely normal.
Drop in Blood Pressure
Feeling unwell when you get up for the first time is normal. That’s why, once the anesthesia wears off, nurses bring a very light meal, but enough to prevent a drop in pressure. Although it can be managed, sometimes a drop in pressure is inevitable, which is why patients are advised to sit for 15 or 20 minutes before getting up to shower or for any other reason. To avoid a drop in pressure, the recommended method is to hydrate with IV fluids even before the patient gets up.
Swelling and Fluid Retention
Retaining fluid after anesthesia is extremely common. Mainly because the use of anesthesia is linked to extreme hydration with IV fluids during the procedure. It is possible for an adult woman to receive five liters or more of IV fluids during labor to prevent the body’s possible negative reaction to the anesthesia. Feet may become swollen, as well as hands, abdomen, legs and face. The swelling will subside over the days as the body eliminates excess fluid through urine or even lymphatic drainage.
Nausea
Nausea can happen immediately after anesthesia is given. However, it is also common and doctors are prepared if it does. Nausea does not happen exactly because of anesthesia, but with its help. The weight of the body on top of the vein that carries oxygen, the vena cava, can lead to dizziness, low blood pressure and nausea. Don’t worry and let your doctor know so they can help correct this symptom with appropriate medication.
See Also: My Experience with Recovery After Childbirth
Photo: ignis
