Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 9/21/2006

Question
I am on effexor xr 150mg 2x day.  I will be having a baby soon and may require a c-section delivery.  What anesthia is safe for either type of pain relief during labor/delivery? Thanks for any help

Answer
Hi Stephanie
The fact that you are on this drug does not change your options in any way. I would manage you as a normal patient and explain the full options open to you. I am sure you have been told about the various forms of pain relief in labour. These range from nothing through the use of entonox, the use of pain killing injections to the use of epidurals. I would urge you not to prejudge what you will need and to keep an open mind. Everyone is different and you may be pleasantly surprised at how resilient you are to the discomfort of labour. However if it is bad for you don't hesitate to ask for an injection or an epidural for pain relief.
I wish you all the best
Dr Ian Jackson