Pain relief

TENS machines are often used for pain relief during labour and these are perfectly suitable for you if you have epilepsy.

An epidural anaesthetic can provide pain relief. However, it is important that the anaesthetist who gives you this knows that you have epilepsy and which anti-epileptic drugs you are taking (if any).

Gas and air is safe, so long as you do not over-breathe when you are using it, as over-breathing can trigger seizures in some people.

Pethidine is not recommended if you have epilepsy, as it can make seizures more likely.

November 2008

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