Anesthesia for Cesarean Health Article

Anesthesia keeps you free of pain during the cesarean. A specially trained health care provider will supply you with the anesthetic. You will receive regional or general anesthesia, depending on how quickly your baby needs to be born.

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia allows you to be awake during the birth. This type of anesthesia numbs your body from above your waist down to your toes. It is the most common type of anesthesia used during a cesarean. Both epidurals and spinals are forms of regional anesthesia.

Epidural

An epidural is often given while you lie curled up on your side. A needle holding a catheter (small tube) is placed in your lower back. The anesthetic is supplied through the catheter as needed. An epidural can provide pain relief for up to 24 hours.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia allows you to relax and sleep during surgery. This type of anesthesia may be used if your baby needs to be born quickly.  The anesthetic is supplied through an IV line. During the cesarean, a mask will be placed over your face to supply oxygen. After your baby's birth, you will be given medications to control pain.

Spinal

A spinal is often given while you sit leaning forward. The anesthetic is supplied in one fast-acting dose. The pain relief provided by a spinal is limited to a few hours. Because of this, other pain medication may be used along with the spinal or given right after the birth.