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Questions and Answers

Q. I am inquiring about the drug fentanyl versus stadol or nubane. I had my first child in central California and stadol and nubane were not offered. Though I do not plan on any pain medication I would really like to understand my options. Thank you. Desirre

A. Desirre,

These medication are all narcotics used during labor. They all will reach the baby, as do all medications, but they do take the edge off. This gives them the distinct advantage of freeing the mother to maintain her mobility in the bed, and is not associated with as many risks as the epidural or spinals.

If I had my choice I would tell everyone to try Stadol. It has the least effects on the baby, and doesn't make you as groggy as the others.

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.