What if a cesarean delivery becomes necessary?

If an epidural catheter is already in place from labor, it is easy to give additional medication to increase the area of numbness for your surgery. The anesthesiologist will check the level of numbness to be sure it is high enough before surgery is allowed to begin.

There are several reasons why epidural and spinal anesthesia are preferred for cesarean birth. It allows you to be awake and see your baby just after birth. If he wishes, the baby’s father can be present to give you emotional support and see and hold the newborn. Also, additional medication can be administered through the epidural catheter to keep you more comfortable after your surgery.