Early and active labor, transition, and pushing
were discussed. Simkin’s Road Map of Labor,
by Childbirth Graphics, was a helpful handout
(Simkin, 2003). Appropriate support measures
and the various breathing techniques were
taught. Mothers planning a vaginal birth were
encouraged to have an epidural put in place during
active labor, even if they did not plan any
pain medication (Bowers & Gromada, 2006). If
needed, epidural placement would facilitate an
emergency cesarean for either twin without resorting
to general anesthesia. One of the births
included in the More of Everything DVD illustrated
this scenario.
Epidural and spinal methods of analgesia were
contrasted in terms of placement, medication
administration,
and sensation. Epidural analgesia