Questions
Does an Epidural Slow Down Labor? Here's What a Midwife Told Me
An epidural can lengthen the second stage of labor by about an hour on average, but it doesn't stall progress. With the right positioning, patience, and midwife support, most people still push effectively and have a vaginal birth.
Does Epidural Prolong Labor? What the Research Says
Yes, an epidural can lengthen labor—but not in the way many people fear. Research shows that epidurals mainly extend the second stage (pushing) by an average of about an hour. The first stage, when your cervix dilates, is usually unaffected. So if you're worried about being 'stuck' at 6 cm, that's not the typical picture.
| Labor Stage | Without Epidural | With Epidural | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| First stage (dilation) | Varies widely | Similar duration | Epidural doesn't slow cervical dilation for most people. |
| Second stage (pushing) | ~1–2 hours | ~2–3 hours | Numbing can reduce the urge to push, so it takes longer. |
| Need for Pitocin | Sometimes | More likely | Epidurals can temporarily slow contractions; Pitocin helps restart them. |
| Instrumental delivery | Lower risk | Slightly higher risk | Longer pushing can lead to vacuum or forceps, but not always. |
| Cesarean rate | Similar | No significant increase | Epidurals don't raise C-section rates—a common myth. |
The takeaway: an epidural doesn't 'stall' labor in the dramatic way many expect. It's a tool that changes the timeline, not the outcome. If you're birthing at a hospital in the Conejo Valley, your midwife can help you navigate these shifts in real time.
Will You Still Feel to Push With an Epidural?
Yes—you'll still feel pressure, even with a well-placed epidural. The epidural numbs pain, but it doesn't erase all sensation. Most people describe a strong, deep pressure when a contraction peaks, which is your cue to push. Your midwife and nurse will guide you on when and how to bear down.
A good fit if…
- You want pain relief but still want to participate. You'll be awake, aware, and actively pushing.
- You're exhausted from a long labor. An epidural can let you rest, then push with renewed energy.
- You're open to position changes. With an epidural, you can still use a peanut ball, side-lying, or semi-upright positions to help baby descend.
Consider another option if…
- You want to feel every sensation. If being fully present in your body is a priority, an unmedicated birth might suit you better.
- You're planning a birth center or home birth. Epidurals aren't available there, so you'd need to transfer to a hospital like Los Robles Regional Medical Center.
- You have a very fast labor. If you're already 8–9 cm, an epidural may not be worth it—but your midwife can help you decide.
How to decide: talk with your midwife about your pain tolerance, birth goals, and backup plans. Many people find that a 'walking epidural' (a lower-dose option) gives a good balance—you feel pressure but not pain.
Midwife Tips to Keep Labor Moving Even With an Epidural
If labor slows after an epidural, your midwife has a toolkit to get things back on track. Here's what we typically do, step by step.
- Reposition. We'll help you change positions—side-lying, using a peanut ball, or propping your hips—to encourage baby to rotate and descend.
- Check the epidural dose. Sometimes lowering the dose restores more sensation and lets you feel the urge to push.
- Use Pitocin if needed. If contractions have weakened, a low dose of Pitocin can strengthen them and restart progress.
- Try a warm compress or bladder check. A full bladder can block baby's descent; emptying it can make a big difference.
- Give it time. Sometimes labor just needs a pause. Your midwife will monitor you and baby to ensure it's safe to wait.
- Call for backup if necessary. If progress truly stalls, we'll consult with the obstetric team to decide the safest next step.
Remember, you're not alone in this. Your midwife is your advocate, whether you're laboring at home or in the hospital. If you're planning a hospital birth in Agoura Hills or nearby Thousand Oaks, we'll be by your side the whole time. For more on what to expect during pushing, see how long pushing lasts with an epidural.
For details on services and visits, see the main page about midwife near me.
Directions to our midwife near me from Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center
Start at Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center and head to The Midwife and More at 5115 Clareton Drive, suite #100, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.
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Frequently asked questions
Can an epidural cause back labor?
An epidural can sometimes make back labor worse if baby is in a posterior position, but it also numbs the pain of back labor. Your midwife can help you reposition to encourage baby to rotate.
Is it too late for an epidural at 8 cm?
It depends on how fast you're progressing. If you're in active labor and close to pushing, an epidural may not be practical. Your midwife can assess your situation and help you decide. For more, see [[page:when-is-it-too-late-for-epidural|when it's too late for an epidural]].
Does an epidural increase the chance of a C-section?
No, research shows that epidurals do not increase the overall C-section rate. They can lengthen pushing, but that doesn't mean you'll need surgery.
Can I walk with an epidural?
With a traditional epidural, you'll be bedbound because your legs are numb. A walking epidural uses a lower dose, so you may be able to move with assistance. Ask your midwife about options.
Also asked as
- Does an epidural make labor longer?
- Can you still push with an epidural?
- What if labor stalls after an epidural?