Expect Freedom from Pain

At Sacred Heart Women’s Hospital, you can expect freedom from pain during your childbirth experience with a tailored pain management plan to fit your needs and wishes.

Choosing to deliver your child naturally or with anesthesia is a personal decision, and we value and respect your wishes when it comes to pain management.

Anesthesia & Epidurals

Sacred Heart Women’s Hospital provides 24-hour childbirth anesthesia coverage for all our patients. This means quicker access to pain medication and more comfort for mothers during labor and delivery.

In order to receive an epidural, you will need to view a mandatory film during your seventh month of pregnancy. This film can be viewed as part of our Prepared Childbirth Class or in our OB Anesthesia Made Simple Class by calling (850) 416-1600.

Frequently Asked Questions

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions on epidurals during childbirth. If you have more questions or would like more information, please call us at (850) 416-1600 or talk with your OB/GYN physician.

When Is It Too Late to Get an Epidural?

Unless your baby is literally being born, we may provide an epidural even up to the last minute. However, Mother Nature sometimes interferes.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Epidural After I Ask For One?

It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to receive an epidural after requesting one because you have to receive a specific amount of IV fluids prior to placement of the epidural.

Will a Doctor Give Me an Epidural?

In most cases, the person who will give you an epidural is a Registered Nurse Anesthetist, known as a “CRNA.” A CRNA has extensive training and frequently provide epidurals and C-section anesthesia.

Will I Feel Anything After I've Had an Epidural?

Yes. You will feel pressure in your bottom half as the baby gets lower in the pelvis, as you become more dilated and as the baby starts to come out.