Women in advanced stages of pregnancy are invited to visit the Pre-Natal Anesthesiology Clinic for an examination and recommendations as to the most suitable anesthesia for them. This advisory service is particularly recommended in the following circumstances:
• Back problems with neurological damage, or a medical history that includes back surgery
• Blood coagulation disorders
• Extensive infection, or infection in the area of the lower back (where the epidural is injected)
• Blood thinning substances (anticoagulants)
Patients in the above categories are not candidates for epidural anesthesia, and should receive alternative painkillers.
Similarly, women suffering from chronic diseases or other circumstances that may be relevant to the choice of anesthetic are also invited for an examination.
A range of solutions exists for patients who cannot receive an epidural, such an intravenous painkillers combined with laughing gas, hypnosis, and more.