Question 1

What is an epidural?

Accepted Answer

An epidural is a common, evidence-based way to reduce pain in natural childbirth. An anesthetic medication is injected into the space around the spinal cord: the mother stays fully awake, but the pain of uterine contractions drops dramatically.

Question 2

Does an epidural affect the progress of labor?

Accepted Answer

Epidural analgesia does not slow labor down. In some cases it is reported to speed labor up, because it helps uterine contractions become more coordinated.

Question 3

Can every mother have an epidural?

Accepted Answer

No. In certain medical conditions it may not be appropriate. That decision is made together by the obstetrician and the anesthesiologist.

Question 4

How long does the medication last?

Accepted Answer

Usually until the end of delivery, and it wears off within a few hours afterwards.

Question 5

Does an epidural cause paralysis?

Accepted Answer

No. That is a myth. Serious complications from an epidural are extremely rare, and at Aramis the procedure is performed only by experienced specialists.

Question 6

Can I still walk after an epidural?

Accepted Answer

With a standard epidural, labor pain is relieved while the mother can still walk and do her pre-birth exercises. The mother becomes pain-free, not numb.

Question 7

Does it harm the baby?

Accepted Answer

No. The chance of neonatal complications is very low, and it is now established that babies born under epidural analgesia have better Apgar scores than babies born through painful labor.

Question 8

Will the baby be born drowsy or sluggish?

Accepted Answer

Studies show no negative effect on the newborn.

Question 9

Are headaches or back pain after an epidural normal?

Accepted Answer

A headache or mild back pain sometimes occurs. It is temporary and usually resolves with rest or simple treatment.

Question 10

If I am very frightened, will an epidural help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The epidural exists for mothers who fear labor pain. Once the fear fades, the mother can cooperate far better during delivery.

Question 11

What if I change my mind in the middle of labor?

Accepted Answer

The choice always belongs to the mother. You can decide not to have the epidural, or ask for it at any point, with your doctor's agreement.

Question 12

When can the epidural be performed?

Accepted Answer

Epidural analgesia can start with the very first labor pains and continue until the end of delivery.

Question 13

If I ask for an epidural during labor, is it too late?

Accepted Answer

In most cases it can still be started midway through labor. The exact decision rests with your doctor and the anesthesia team.

Question 14

Do I need to arrange this before the birth?

Accepted Answer

It is best to coordinate with the Aramis team ahead of your due date, so everything is ready on the day.

Question 15

Can I choose the hospital where I give birth?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Aramis attends only its partner hospitals, and the full list is on the hospitals page.

Question 16

What if my obstetrician works at a different hospital?

Accepted Answer

New hospitals can be reviewed and added. Get in touch and let us know.

Question 17

Does the cost of an epidural differ between hospitals?

Accepted Answer

It may vary slightly depending on each hospital's tariff and the additional services involved.

Question 18

Can I be present beside my wife?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your presence brings her real calm. We also welcome your concerns and will answer your questions.

Question 19

If my wife asks for an epidural at the moment of birth, is it too late?

Accepted Answer

It is usually still possible. The decision rests with the obstetrician and the anesthesia team.

Question 20

Does an epidural prolong labor?

Accepted Answer

According to recent studies it does not prolong labor; it actually accelerates it.

Question 21

What if the mother has specific medical conditions?

Accepted Answer

Every case is reviewed individually with the obstetrician and the anesthesia team. Where an epidural is contraindicated, alternatives are proposed.

Question 22

Who obtains informed consent?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent is obtained by the anesthesia team, and a copy is filed in the patient's record.

Question 23

Does the epidural service replace me?

Accepted Answer

No. Aramis is purely complementary. The epidural is performed in full coordination with the obstetrician.

Question 24

Does my real name have to be published?

Accepted Answer

No. You can stay anonymous, or share only your first name.

Question 25

If my experience was not good, can I still share it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We do not censor stories. What matters is honesty and respect.

Question 26

Can I send my story as audio or video?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and nothing is published without your permission.

Fear usually comes from not knowing

Question categories

The science of the epidural

Safety and side effects

Feelings and fears

Timing and logistics

Questions from partners

Questions from obstetricians

Questions about mothers' stories

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