Are there specific risks associated with anesthesia during pregnancy?
February 5, 2022 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Felix Herrmann
Dear Doctor,
My name is Katja Höfer and I am currently in the 20th week of pregnancy. In a few weeks, I will undergo a surgery that requires general anesthesia. I am very concerned about the potential risks that anesthesia could pose for my unborn child and myself.
I have done some research on the internet, but the information is conflicting and confusing. Some sources warn of increased risks such as miscarriages, preterm births, or developmental disorders, while others claim that anesthesia during pregnancy is relatively safe.
I understand that every anesthesia carries certain risks, but in my case, being pregnant, I am especially worried. I want to ensure that I make the best possible decision to protect both my child's health and my own.
Can you please explain in detail what specific risks exist with anesthesia during pregnancy? Are there certain types of anesthesia that are safer than others? Are there additional precautions that can be taken to minimize the risks?
I thank you in advance for your time and assistance in addressing my questions. Your professional opinion and expertise are of great importance to me in making an informed decision.
Sincerely,
Katja Höfer
Dear Mrs. Höfer,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an anesthesiologist. It is understandable that you are concerned about the effects of anesthesia on your unborn child and yourself, especially during your pregnancy. I will do my best to answer your questions in as much detail as possible and help you make an informed decision.
It is important to know that any type of medical intervention, including surgery with anesthesia, carries certain risks. However, anesthesia during pregnancy is generally safe in most cases, especially when performed by experienced anesthesiologists and all necessary precautions are taken.
Regarding specific risks of anesthesia during pregnancy, miscarriages, preterm births, and developmental disorders are indeed some of the possible complications that can occur. However, these risks are usually very rare and depend on various factors, such as the stage of pregnancy, the mother's health condition, and the type of anesthesia.
There are different types of anesthesia that can be used during pregnancy, including general anesthesia, spinal and epidural anesthesia, and local anesthesia. Regional anesthesia techniques such as spinal and epidural anesthesia are generally considered safer for pregnant women, as they pose lower risks to the unborn child compared to general anesthesia.
To minimize the risks of anesthesia during pregnancy, it is important to discuss your pregnancy with your anesthesiologist before the operation and exchange all relevant information about your health condition and potential risks. Your anesthesiologist will then select the safest anesthesia method for you and your child and take all necessary precautions to avoid complications.
In summary, anesthesia during pregnancy is generally safe when performed by experienced anesthesiologists and all necessary precautions are taken. It is important to talk to your anesthesiologist about your concerns and make the best decision for your health and that of your child together.
I hope I have sufficiently answered your questions and am available for further information. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Felix Herrmann, Anesthesiologist
