Spinal Block
A spinal block is administered in the same way as an epidural,
via a needle into the epidural space in your back, but unlike
the epidural which can be topped up, the spinal block consists of a
single dose of local anesthetic which completely numbs your lower
body. It is most commonly used for caesarian section deliveries as
it allows you to be conscious during the delivery and doesn't have
the lasting grogginess that follows a general anesthetic.
A spinal block also lowers your blood pressure which can be an
advantage if you are suffering from high blood pressure or
pre-eclampsia, but it can also be a disadvantage as your blood
pressure can drop too low.
Other risks of a spinal block are similar to those when having
an epidural: the potential for the anesthetist to insert the needle
into the spinal cord an cause an epidural headache, as well as
increased incidence of needing a forceps/ventouse assisted delivery
as it blocks the pushing sensation in later labour.
"I had a spinal block, not for pain relief but to lower my
blood pressure. I didn't like it, it made me feel very detatched
and I felt a lot of pressure and pulling."
"I'm so glad I a spinal block for my c-section, it let me
experience everything, and I heard my baby's first cry, I wouldn't
like to have missed out on that!"