As a follow up to Henci Goer's recent analysis of the the Cochrane Systematic Review of the just released epidural study - Early versus late initiation of epidural analgesia for labour, I wanted to share the newest Lamaze International infographic "Is An Epidural My Only Option?" geared for expectant families. This fact sheet provides information not only about the epidural, it shares the risks and benefits. The infographic discusses how to reduce risks and improve outcomes when laboring people choose to use one, such as trying other things first before asking for an epidural and changing positions frequently after the epidural is administered.Additionally, there are several suggestions for alternatives to an epidural, which some people may find really helps to minimize pain, including using a doula for labor and birth support. Encouraging families to ask questions about alternatives of their health care providers, choosing a facility that supports alternative forms of pain relief and discussing with their partners how the partner can help them to cope during labor.I really appreciate the strong encouragement for families to take a Lamaze Childbirth Class in order to learn more about labor and birth and the coping skills that can promote a safe and health birth for mother and baby. My childbirth classes are chock full of positions, techniques and tips to help reduce pain, maximize comfort and promote normal birth. We thoroughly cover pain medication options as well, and families leave confident that they can effectively ask for and receive the information they need to make a decision about what, if any, medications they will choose during labor to help with pain.I invite you to head over and check out the new epidural infographic, consider sharing the print or electronic version and checking out all the wonderful Lamaze resources on the website for educators. Your students and clients can find the same information on the parent site!Which infographic is your favorite? Which one do you use and refer to most frequently? Let us know in the comments section below.

Published: November 03, 2014

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