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HOSPITALScience City Rd+91 97234 31544
AEC CLINICNaranpura+91 70460 02566
WhatsApp Hospital 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Clinic 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
📍 Hospital · Science City Rd · +91 97234 31544 📍 AEC Clinic · Naranpura · +91 70460 02566
ISO 9001:2015 Bureau Veritas / UKASGujarat CEA Permanent registrationICMR ART Level-2 laboratoryESHRE / ASRM aligned careISUOG IDEA imaging protocol15-bed single-speciality hospital★ 5.0 · 287 Google reviews

Balaji Horizon Women's Hospital

Painless Labour (Epidural) in Ahmedabad

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead · Obstetrician · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF & Endometriosis Specialist · Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital, Science City Road, Ahmedabad

“Painless labour” means labour pain that is well controlled — most often with an epidural, a safe and effective form of pain relief given by an anaesthetist. It is your choice, planned in advance, and does not mean you will feel nothing; it means the pain is brought to a comfortable level.

What an epidural is

An epidural delivers local anaesthetic near the nerves of the lower spine, easing the pain of contractions while you remain awake and aware. It can be topped up through labour and, if a caesarean becomes necessary, often used for that too.

Benefits

Epidural analgesia is the most effective labour pain relief available, allows rest during a long labour, and keeps you alert for the birth. For some women with high blood pressure or specific conditions, it has added medical benefits.

Risks and limits, honestly

An epidural is generally very safe. Possible effects include a drop in blood pressure, temporary heaviness in the legs, a slightly longer pushing stage, and occasionally a headache. It does not, on current evidence, increase the overall chance of a caesarean. We explain these points so your choice is informed.

Other options and planning

Pain relief is not all-or-nothing — breathing techniques, mobility and other medications also help, and you can change your mind during labour. Discuss your preferences during antenatal care so a plan is ready.

Frequently asked questions

Does an epidural increase the chance of a caesarean?
On current evidence, an epidural does not increase the overall likelihood of a caesarean. It may slightly lengthen the pushing stage and sometimes makes an assisted vaginal birth a little more likely.
Will I feel nothing at all?
Not necessarily — the aim is comfortable, well-controlled pain rather than complete absence of sensation. Many women still feel pressure, which helps with pushing.
Can everyone have an epidural?
Most women can, but it is not suitable for everyone — certain bleeding or spine conditions may prevent it. An anaesthetist assesses suitability and explains the options.
Related care at Balaji Horizon: Delivery overview · Normal delivery · Pregnancy care

Plan your delivery with Dr. Priyadatt Patel at Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital, Science City Road, Ahmedabad.

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★★★★★5.0 · 287 Verified Google Reviews

Dr. Priyadatt Patel

Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead

MS OBGyn · Pregnancy Care · Advanced Gynaecological Ultrasound · Fertility Preservation

ESHRE / ESGE / AAGL / ASRM guideline-aligned practice. 3D Karl Storz precision technique. Fertility-preservation-first philosophy. Evidence-based decisions, honest counselling, long-term outcomes orientation.

Endometriosis
Superficial to deep infiltrating, fertility-preserving excision
IVF & Fertility
Individualised protocols, ART Level 2 lab, transparent outcomes
Advanced Laparoscopy
3D Karl Storz precision, nerve-sparing technique
Pregnancy Care
Antenatal care, high-risk pregnancy, advanced ultrasound
Balaji Horizon Women Hospital
Science City Road, Ahmedabad 380060
Mon–Sat 11:00–20:00 · +91 97234 31544
Balaji Women Clinic (AEC)
Naranpura, Ahmedabad
Mon–Sat 08:30–10:30 · +91 70460 02566
Bureau Veritas ISO 9001 UKAS accreditation 0008 — Balaji Horizon Women's Hospital

Internationally Accredited · State Registered

ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System — UKAS Accredited Certification by Bureau Veritas

Certificate IND.25.899/QM/U · Valid until 02 September 2028 · Independently verify at certcheck.ukas.com

Permanently registered under Gujarat Clinical Establishments Act, 2021 · Reg. No. CEA/AHD/262/2025 · Single Speciality Hospital · 15 Beds

Operated by Balaji Women’s Clinic · Trading as Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital

Patient Letter — thoughtful notes from the clinic

Reviewed by Dr. Priyadatt Patel. New patient guides, clinical FAQ updates and quiet clinical notes. No promotional spam.

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