paralyzing epidural

I would think the moral of the story is TRULY informed consent and indepth prenatal education including relaxation techniques.

I know of two people who could not breath following epidural initiation. Apparently the vertebrae level between pain relief and paralyzing the diaphragm is fairly short, and especially in short women the meds can migrate the distance in rare cases. Always watch your mom like a hawk during the initial dosing and subsequent boluses.

Just a thought- I have never heard breathing paralysis mentioned in the risks when consent is obtained. I imagine people would like to know. Having a class before getting anepidural sounds great but unrealistic.

Epidurals are safer than childbirth.