Fashion and beauty entrepreneur Toyin Lawani has shared her harrowing experience with epidural anesthesia, shedding light on the potential long-term side effects of the widely used pain relief method during childbirth. In a candid video posted online, the mother of three revealed that she has been struggling with severe back pain and spinal degeneration since receiving epidural injections during the birth of her last two children.
The Epidural Experience
Epidural anesthesia is a common procedure administered to pregnant women to alleviate pain during labor. It involves injecting anesthetic medication into the epidural space of the spine, effectively numbing the lower half of the body. While it is widely regarded as a safe and effective method for pain management, Lawani’s experience highlights the potential risks and long-term consequences that are often not discussed.
In her video, Lawani expressed regret over opting for epidurals during her last two childbirths. She revealed that the procedure has left her with chronic pain and spinal issues, significantly impacting her quality of life.
“When you hear ‘epidural,’ run. Doctors tell you about the side effects but do not tell you about the long-term effects on your body. I have about three friends having the same issues that I am having,” Lawani said.
Chronic Pain and Spinal Degeneration
Lawani, who is only 42 years old, disclosed that she has been diagnosed with a degenerating spine and has had to undergo surgery to address the complications caused by the epidural injections. She described the pain as unbearable and shared that it has affected her ability to perform everyday tasks.
“Like, I am just 42, how did I end up with spine issues? I have a degenerating spine. I have implants in my spine. I go paralyzed. I can’t stand for a long time. I can’t even breathe properly sometimes because it affected so many things in my body when I had the surgery,” she explained.
The entrepreneur also revealed that she had no choice but to opt for an epidural during her last childbirth due to the need for surgery. However, she emphasized that the pain relief was temporary, and the long-term consequences have been devastating.
“They will not tell you because you just want the pain to go away. I have had two epidurals. I had my first as natural birth. The last two were epidural. The last one I had epidural because I had to undergo surgery, and I had no choice. See, the pain does not stop. My back is killing me, and my spine is degenerating,” she added.
A Call for Better Awareness
Lawani’s story has sparked a conversation about the need for better awareness and transparency regarding the potential risks of epidural anesthesia. She urged women to educate themselves thoroughly before making decisions about pain management during childbirth.
“Doctors need to be more transparent about the long-term effects of epidurals. Women deserve to know the risks so they can make informed decisions,” she said.
Her experience has resonated with many women who have faced similar challenges. Lawani revealed that she has three friends who are also dealing with complications from epidural injections, further underscoring the need for greater awareness and research into the procedure’s long-term effects.
Reactions from the Public
Lawani’s revelations have elicited a wave of reactions from the public, with many women sharing their own experiences with epidurals. Some expressed gratitude for her honesty, while others shared their struggles with chronic pain and other complications following the procedure.
A social media user commented, “Thank you for speaking out about this. I had an epidural during my last childbirth, and I’ve been dealing with back pain ever since. It’s comforting to know I’m not alone.”
Another user wrote, “This is so important. Women need to know the risks before making such a critical decision. Thank you for sharing your story.”
Medical Perspective on Epidural Risks
While epidural anesthesia is generally considered safe, medical experts acknowledge that it is not without risks. Common side effects include temporary numbness, headaches, and low blood pressure. However, more serious complications, such as nerve damage, infection, and long-term back pain, can occur in rare cases.
Dr. Adeola Oladipo, a gynecologist based in Lagos, explained that while epidurals are effective for pain relief, they should be administered with caution. “Epidurals are a valuable tool for managing labor pain, but like any medical procedure, they come with risks. It’s important for healthcare providers to discuss these risks with patients and ensure they are fully informed before making a decision,” she said.
Dr. Oladipo also emphasized the importance of individualized care. “Every woman’s experience with childbirth is unique, and pain management should be tailored to her specific needs and circumstances. Open communication between patients and healthcare providers is key to ensuring positive outcomes,” she added.
Lawani’s Message to Women
In her video, Lawani encouraged women to prioritize their health and well-being, especially when it comes to childbirth. She urged them to explore alternative pain management options and to seek second opinions if necessary.
“Your health is your wealth. Don’t let anyone pressure you into making a decision that could affect your body for the rest of your life. Do your research, ask questions, and make informed choices,” she advised.
Conclusion
Toyin Lawani’s candid account of her experience with epidural anesthesia has shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of childbirth. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, education, and informed decision-making in healthcare.
As more women come forward with their own experiences, there is hope that the medical community will take steps to address these concerns and provide better support for women during childbirth. In the meantime, Lawani’s message resonates as a powerful call to action for women to take control of their health and advocate for themselves.
