Erica L Kroll
Certified Whole Birth Educator 
doula/labor support 
Herbalist/Aromatherapist 
birthwise@gmail.com
www.womeninbloom.com 
573.445.5053

Medicated Birth

Although natural birth is often the most beneficial with fewer risks and side effects for both mother and baby with normal pregnancies, I deeply understand the need for compassionate pain relief and fully support women no matter what they choose as their birth experience.

In some instances, pain medications can help the mother relax and dilate; especially during prolonged labors, or when complications inhibit the natural flow and progress of labor and birth.

However, many studies have shown that narcotics (pain medications), epidurals, cesarean sections, and other interventions can actually cause problems, and have many adverse side affects. My job as your doula is to make sure you know the pros and cons of such interventions so that you are able to make your own informed decisions.

Medical interventions can also lead to other more serious interventions. Choosing optional interventions is a trade off. It is important to know what you will be giving up (such as freedom of movement among other things) if you decide to take advantage of medications or other interventions.

Please note that even if you want an epidural or other pain relieving medications, you still need a lot of support. You will find that having a doula is still very beneficial.

Please read: If I Have an Epidural, Why Do I Need a Doula?

You may also be interested in reading these articles to be informed:

Technology In Birth: First Do No Harm By: Marsden Wagner M.D.

Reported Side Effects of Epidural Anesthesia

 Effects of Epidural Anesthesia on Newborns and their Mothers

Epidurals: Real Risks for Mother and Baby

 Relationship Between Obstetric Analgesia and Time of Effective Breastfeeding

 Effect of Epidural Analgesia for Labor on the Cesarean Delivery Rate