epidural side effects

Most women don't experience any side effects after getting an epidural. A headache is probably the most common side effect and can happen if the needle used to place the epidural catheter accidentally punctures the dural membrane of the spine. This puncturing causes the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid and leads to what's known as a spinal headache. But not to worry, it only happens in 1-2% of epidural catheter placements. While it was initially thought that the epidural is associated with back pain after delivery, more recent data shows no link between the two. And thankfully, nerve damage is a very rare complication. In my opinion, it is all in the head because of the impression we are "fed". Most new mummies experience backaches from the poor posture they are presenting.