When an epidural cannot be given

Epidurals are a fairly safe type of anesthesia for most patients. However, like any method of analgesia, epidurals are not recommended in all cases. Therefore, it is important to study each patient individually before deciding on the method of anesthesia.

For example, epidurals are not recommended for people with obesity, heart disease and/or coagulation problems. In addition, epidurals are not recommended for pregnant women with a cervical dilatation of more than 8-9 cm at the time of delivery.