Overview

Labor is powerful. So is understanding your options. Too often, pain relief during childbirth is presented as an all-or-nothing choice-get the epidural or go without. But labor analgesia isn't one-size-fits-all. There's a spectrum of options and understanding them can make all the difference in how you experience birth. This book is your guide to what's possible, what's safe, and what's right for you. In The Epidural Epidemic, you'll learn: How labor pain works-physiologically and neurologically The full range of pain relief options, from breathing techniques to epidurals and spinal blocks The real risks, benefits, and limitations of each method How to decide what's best for you based on evidence, not pressure How to talk to your care team, ask the right questions, and advocate for your preferences Why patient-centered, individualized care is essential to positive outcomes Written by Dr. Matthew Kumar, a board-certified anesthesiologist with more than 40 years of clinical experience, this book is both comprehensive and easy to understand. Designed with full-color illustrations, charts, and diagrams, it makes even complex information clear, accessible, and empowering. Whether you're planning a hospital delivery, working with a midwife, or simply exploring your options, The Epidural Epidemic offers clarity, support, and a powerful reminder: You still have a choice.

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Dr. Matthew Kumar is a board-certified anesthesiologist and intensivist with over four decades of clinical experience. He combines practical expertise with deep compassion for managing pain during childbirth. Currently, he serves as the Chief of Anesthesiology Services at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Prior to this role, he practiced for more than 30 years as a Consultant in Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Throughout his career, he has educated numerous medical students, nurses, residents, and graduate students. Dr. Kumar is also actively engaged in medical research and has participated in several clinical trials and holds multiple biomedical patents. He is a strong advocate for patient-centered medical care, particularly in the field of obstetrics.

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