Other pain relief topics
- Entonox (gas and air)
- Opioids
- Epidurals
- Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia
- Water birth
- Complementary therapies
Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia
Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) is a method of pain relief where you give yourself opioid drugs (usually remifentanil or fentanyl) using a pump attached to a drip.
PCIA is a way of giving yourself small amounts of pain relief medicine (opioids) when you need it. You hold a button in your hand. When you need pain relief, press the button and a small amount of pain relief is delivered into your drip.
PCIA is sometimes used instead of an epidural for pain relief during labour. This may be your choice, or there may be reasons why you can’t have an epidural. The medicines used for PCIA are called remifentanil or fentanyl.
The pain relief medicine used for PCIA acts quickly but does not last long. This means it can help reduce the pain of contractions. It may be possible to continue to use gas and air as well as your PCIA.
Pain relief medicine used for PCIA can have some side effects. It can:
- Slow your breathing
- Cause your oxygen levels to drop
- Make you itchy
- Make you feel sick
- They can make you feel sleepy.
If any of these side effects happen, your anaesthetist will check on you. They will monitor you and give you oxygen if needed. If they have concerns, they will offer alternative pain relief options. PCIA is considered safe for babies.
Not every labour ward can safely offer PCIA pain relief. Ask your midwife what is available in your hospital. Your anaesthetic doctor will discuss pain relief with you and help you make the best choice for you and your baby.
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