Passing out while in labor

b00300408

I had a bad experience giving blood at my first OB appointment, I passed out and had no idea where I was or what was happening when I came to. I HATE that feeling. I was terrified and then told I may have had a seizure so I was taken to the ER.
I was wondering how many BTDT moms passed out while they were in labor and what caused it?

caffrin

I did. It was right after they put the catheter in. But my blood pressure dropped to like 70/40 and they don't know why. I passed out a couple of other times during labor too. But I had a really hard, long labor. I'm saying this time will be easy!! ;]

ASmallWonder

I wouldn't assume that this was anything other than related to the blood draw and freak yourself out. Next time tell them you need to have it drawn laying down and stay laying down for at least 10 minutes.

ChristyD6

I have passed out probably a dozen times in my life, each somehow related to having blood drawn, shots, or even just talking about needles. Mine is a blood pressure issue. I always have any injection or blood draw done while I'm laying down. I don't care if its a little high maintainence, I don't want to pass out any more often than I already do. I try to keep my arm relaxed but do butt squeezes to try and increase my BP. If you are waking up confused, losing bladder control or have a bad fog it may possibly be a seizure. You should get check out by a neurologist and cardiologist just in case. Cardio will probably want to do an Echo to make sure you don't have an idiopathic, unknown cause, enlarged heart.

This pregnancy is hopefully helping me learn how to cope with my severe anxiety around needles. For labor my main concerns are when I'm giving IVs. Good luck!!

Imbrium101

I too have a problem with fainting when it comes to blood, shots, panic, etc. It's called Vasovagal Syncope. Its a loss of consciousness as a result of a trigger (shots, blood, needles), and causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the flow of blood to your brain, causing you to faint.

This is really my one big fear about labor, that I'll keep fainting and not be able to push as needed.

RIngReady

I pass out when giving blood as well, even if I am laying down. My BP is generally pretty low, so blood draws are hard on my system.  I'm also allergic to the preservatives in local anesthetics, and have had a seizure resulting from the allergic reaction. 

I talked extensively to my Dr.  during one of my appointments and she has assured me that they will watch me closely during labor. She also ordered a bunch of additional tests/appointments for me ie: allergist, anesthesiologist and neurologist. While the additional appointments can be a pain to schedule, I am feeling better not only about labor but I feel more informed about my body too. 

I'm sure you have but keep talking to your Dr. about your concerns and see what they say. 

sweetrhythms

Imbrium101:

I too have a problem with fainting when it comes to blood, shots, panic, etc. It's called Vasovagal Syncope. Its a loss of consciousness as a result of a trigger shots, blood, needles, and causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the flow of blood to your brain, causing you to faint.This is really my one big fear about labor, that I'll keep fainting and not be able to push as needed.

This exactly!! Although, mine is triggered when I throw up. Morning sickness is fun. I'm on Zofran and have to lay down in bed to throw up without passing out. I'm really nervous about labor because I don't know how I'll react! Glad I'm not alone!