What are the Risks of Epidurals During Labor
Understanding the risks of epidurals is an important part of deciding whether this pain management option aligns with your empowered birth experience. An epidural can be a helpful tool for some women, but it is not a requirement for a positive or confident birth. The key is making a decision rooted in evidence, self-awareness, and informed choice rather than fear or pressure.
If You Feel Torn about Epidurals, You are Not Alone
Many pregnant moms worry that choosing or declining an epidural somehow defines the success of their birth. You may hear strong opinions in every direction, which can make the decision feel heavier than it needs to be.
An empowered birth is not about choosing the “right” option.
It is about understanding your options, including the risks of epidurals, and deciding what best supports your body, your goals, and your sense of safety.
You’ve likely heard the phrase “You don’t get a trophy for having a natural birth”…
If you’re nervous about labor pain and are wanting to learn more about epidurals, check out Episode 51 of Your Birth Bestie podcast! Learn about what an epidural is and what to expect during the procedure. Understand risks vs benefits, along with their impact on the birth process.
Understanding the Risks of Epidurals in Context
An epidural is a common and generally safe form of pain relief, but like any medical intervention, it comes with potential risks and trade-offs that deserve thoughtful consideration.
Some possible risks of epidurals include:
Limited mobility during labor and birth
A drop in blood pressure
Longer pushing phase for some people
Increased need for coached pushing
Possible need for additional interventions
Temporary numbness or discomfort afterward
Insufficient pain management or unsuccessful placement
Not everyone experiences these effects, and for many, the benefits outweigh the risks. The goal is not to scare you, but to help you understand how the risks of epidurals may or may not align with your priorities.
How the Risks of Epidurals May Impact Your Birth Preferences
When deciding whether an epidural fits your birth experience, it can be helpful to reflect on what matters most to you.
Consider asking yourself:
How important is freedom of movement to me during labor?
Do I want to feel sensations during pushing?
What other options am I considering for pain control?
How do I typically cope with pain or intense sensations?
What helps me feel safe and supported?
For some, the ability to rest with an epidural supports a calm and positive experience. For others, the potential limitations related to the risks of epidurals feel misaligned with their vision for physiologic birth.
Neither perspective is wrong.
Alternatives and Flexibility Matter Too
An empowered birth plan often includes more than one option. You might plan to labor without medication while staying open to an epidural if circumstances change. Or you may choose an epidural early, knowing it supports your emotional wellbeing.
It can help to learn about:
Movement and positioning for comfort
Breathing and relaxation techniques
Hydrotherapy
Labor support from a partner or birth doula
Understanding these options gives you confidence no matter how labor unfolds.
My Perspective as a Midwife
As a midwife, I do not believe in one size fits all birth decisions.
I have supported beautiful, empowering births with epidurals and without them. What matters most is that the decision feels informed, respected, and aligned with your values.
When families understand the risks of epidurals and feel supported in their choice, they are more likely to feel confident and grounded during labor, regardless of the path they take.
Preparing for the Conversation With Your Provider
Before labor, consider discussing the following with your provider:
How epidurals are offered and timed
How movement and positioning are supported afterward
How pushing is guided with an epidural
What alternatives are available
These conversations help ensure your preferences are honored and reduce stress during labor.
Ready to Make a Decision That Feels Right for You?
Deciding whether an epidural fits your birth experience is deeply personal. Understanding the risks of epidurals allows you to choose from a place of confidence rather than uncertainty.
If you want guidance navigating pain management options with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based support, I would love to help.
An empowered birth is not defined by the tools you use, but by the choices you make with intention.
What is one question you still have about the risks of epidurals as you prepare for birth?
