Online Childbirth Education Class Five - Epidural Cesarean Section Medications

IV/Saline Lock

The IV line is designed to admit a small catheter into a vein, usually in your arm. This allows for the rapid introduction of medications or fluids, should it be needed in an emergency situation. A saline lock (or Heparin lock) is the start of this catheter with no tubing attached, so that only the first portion of the IV is in place. This allows more freedom of movement and mobility.

These may be routine at your hospital or birth center. Ask. You may have the ability to choose the lock over a standard IV line, or if you're low risk you may have the option to forego this all together. This should be addressed in your birth plan.

An IV line will be required for those who are high risk or request medication. You do have the right to ask about the placement and choose a site that is better for you comfort. For example, having it placed in the arm rather than the back of the hand may allow you a bit more flexibility in the wrists.

Catheter

Catheters are inserted into the bladder to help drain urine. A full bladder can prevent the descent of the baby, so it is important to be able to have an empty bladder.

If you choose to have epidural anesthesia or require a cesarean birth, a catheter will be used because you will not be able to have the sensation of a full bladder. The catheter will allow your bladder to remain empty without effort on your part.

Prep/Shave/Enema

The shaving of the pubic hair was once thought to prevent infection, this is untrue. If you're concerned you can trim the hairs towards the perineum or shave yourself prior to having the baby.

The enema was to help you pass all the stool in your bowel. Since we know that labor tends to start out with loose bowels, this is generally not needed. It can also be quite uncomfortable and lead to dehydration.

Do you fear having a bowel movement during birth?