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The Black Doctors Podcast

A Patient's Guide to Anesthesia for Childbirth

Season 11, Ep. 12

In this episode of the Black Doctors Podcast, Dr. Steven Bradley, a double board-certified anesthesiologist and critical care medicine physician, delves into the role of anesthesiologists during labor and delivery. He aims to demystify various anesthesia techniques, focusing on epidurals and spinals, which are commonly used to manage pain and support safety during childbirth. Dr. Bradley explains the procedures, potential risks, and common misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's anesthesia options for a more informed and stress-free delivery experience.


Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Bradley provides a detailed walkthrough of what patients can expect when receiving an epidural or spinal anesthesia. He discusses the process including medical history review, placement techniques, and immediate aftercare. Additionally, Dr. Bradley addresses concerns such as potential side effects, the rarity of complications like nerve damage, and the debunking of myths about anesthesia slowing down labor or affecting a mother’s ability to push.


The episode also highlights the importance of communication with medical professionals and considerations for different hospital settings. Dr. Bradley encourages expectant parents to ask questions and be proactive in their care. Beyond the technical aspects, he shares his personal experience as a new father and introduces listeners to his ambient music project, which aims to offer calming music for various settings, including childbirth.


Interested in starting a podcast? Check out Riverside for your remote recording needs: RIVERSIDE.FM

 

Use the discount code: BDPODCAST and save $25 off all TrueLearn USMLE, COMLEX and Residency Smartbanks.  


Do you need help with relaxation and decreasing stress? Check out AmbientRx on YouTube for music therapy and sound baths or stream the NOISE-1 album on Spotify.


Interviewing for the big attending job? Check out the Physician's Contract course developed by Michael Johnson Legal. Use this affiliate link to receive a discount!

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please share with a friend and leave a comment and rating on iTunes. TBDP is a volunteer passion project with the goal of inspiring all who listen.


In-house music and audio production, so any ideas for improvements or suggestions for future guests are welcome. Visit www.StevenBradleyMD.com to learn more about our host. He is available for consultations or speaking engagements regarding health equity and medical ethics.

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