Everyone is quick to celebrate the miracle of childbirth. But sometimes it can cause pain bringing another human into this world. Doctors in hospitals currently give mothers drugs for a successful labor with less pain. But these medications come with their own set of risks for the baby and the mother. Medical marijuana has been shown to work well to help with many conditions and procedures. So doctors and expectant mothers both continue to wonder, could cannabis replace traditional labor medications?
Traditional Labor Medications
Some expectant mothers prefer to experience the miracle of life without the help of drugs. But many do seek pain relief or help. And doctors are quick to provide medications.
Pitocin is a long-established drug given during labor. It is a synthetic form of oxytocin, a hormone that encourages feelings of bonding.
Also, it causes uterine contractions.
To put it bluntly, Pitocin is given to get the party started.
But this drug comes with some downsides. Patients may respond to the drug strongly. They may even develop stronger contractions than the baby can handle. These contractions can be powerful enough to harm the baby and restrict its air flow.
Not to mention, the drug can deliver contractions so strong, it can tear the uterus too.
Pitocin isn’t the only drug doled out. An epidural is anesthesia put inside the spinal cord. Inserted into the lower back, it numbs the nerves that give the sensation of pain without holding up any muscles.
This help is critical when it finally comes time to push. But this drug comes with its own pitfalls too. It can cause headaches, infections, or damage to the spinal cord.
Opiates also make the list of drugs expectant mothers