"Should I Get an Epidural?" — Making Informed Choices About Pain Relief in Labor

Trinity Doula Services
2 days ago
3 min read

When it comes to labor and birth, one of the most common questions expecting parents ask is: Should I get an epidural? It’s a deeply personal decision—one that can bring up strong opinions, conflicting advice, and even a bit of guilt no matter which path you choose.

At Trinity Doula Services, we believe in one thing above all: informed, supported, judgment-free choices.

So let’s talk about epidurals—the benefits, the risks, the myths, and the reality—so you can walk into your birth empowered and confident.

What Is an Epidural, Anyway?

An epidural is a regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a specific area—in this case, the lower half of your body. It’s administered by an anesthesiologist and involves a small catheter placed into the epidural space in your lower back. Medication is continuously delivered, reducing or eliminating labor pain while still allowing you to be awake and alert.

Pros of Choosing an Epidural

Effective Pain Relief: For many birthing people, epidurals provide excellent pain management and allow for rest, especially in longer labors.
Reduces Physical Exhaustion: Pain can be exhausting. An epidural may help conserve energy for pushing, especially if your labor is prolonged.
Can Be Emotionally Helpful: For those with birth trauma, anxiety, or fear around labor pain, an epidural can be a tool for emotional safety.

Things to Consider

Mobility Is Limited: You’ll likely be confined to bed, requiring a bladder catheter and external fetal monitoring.
Increased Risk of Other Interventions: Studies show that epidurals can be associated with increased use of Pitocin, assisted delivery (vacuum/forceps), or longer second-stage labor.
Common Side Effects: These may include itching, low blood pressure, fever, or difficulty pushing. Severe complications are rare but possible.

Epidural Myths—Let’s Bust a Few

❌ “If you get an epidural, you’re weak.”➤ Truth: Strength isn’t measured in pain tolerance. It’s measured in showing up, being present, and making informed decisions.
❌ “You can’t go natural if you’re open to an epidural.”➤ Truth: Many people plan for unmedicated births and still remain open to all options. Flexibility is a strength.
❌ “Epidurals always slow labor.”➤ Truth: While some labors may slow, others actually progress better after rest. Every body responds differently.

What We Recommend at TDS

At Trinity Doula Services, we support both medicated and unmedicated births. Our doulas are trained to help you navigate your birth preferences, adjust your plans if needed, and advocate for your choices in real time.

We help our clients:

Understand their options fully before labor begins
Create a flexible, personalized birth plan
Use comfort measures like counterpressure, movement, and water therapy—regardless of pain management choices
Communicate clearly with hospital staff to ensure informed consent at every step

So, Should You Get an Epidural?

There’s no universal right answer—only what feels best for you. And the “right” choice might shift during labor, and that’s okay too.

Whether you choose an epidural as part of your birth plan from the start, opt for it as labor unfolds, or decide to go without entirely—we’re here for you.

No judgment. No agenda. Just experienced support.

Want to Talk It Through?

Book a free 30-minute consultation with a Trinity Doula today. We’ll walk you through your options, share what’s typical in your chosen birth location, and help you feel ready for what’s ahead.

📍 Serving the Greater St. Louis & Southern Illinois region🌐 www.trinitydoula.com📞 Call/Text: 636-222-3544📧 info@trinitydoula.com