Questions & Answers

Look into the pros, cons and risks of an epidural, and then keep an open mind. Maybe plan to go med free with the understanding that anything can happen. You might have a higher pain tolerance than you know and not need one, or you might have bad back labor and definitely need one.

I chose to deliver without because of the adverse reactions some of my IRL friends have had. One had an epidural headache so bad she couldn't lift her head off her pillow for a week after her baby was born. Another had such a strong one and wasn't checked in time and her baby crowned without her knowing with no one there. My SIL had one that didn't work properly, and she ended up with only a partial block. She could feel everything high on one side still, but wasn't able to feel to push properly.

By that same token, I've had friends who swear by them and have had no issues at all. It's a personal choice, there isn't a wrong answer. Keep an open mind and see how your labor progresses.

Just so you have both sides. I hated my epidurial. I had an extreme reaction. I wasn't able to walk on my own for 10-12 hours after it was stopped. My labor was stopped or nearly stopped by the epidrual. I was laboring hard and fast I felt I needed it, I regret it. I was went from water breaking changing over 10 mins to no progress in hours. I fell when I tried to go pee with the nurses help and had to be re cathitorized. Bruising my back right over my epidrual spot. It was a nightmare. And one of the major factors in me finding a midwife for this pregnancy.

Yup they are exactly right. I was in labour 28 hrs and the first 22 I didnt feel because of where the bag of water had been moved. It was blocking a pain nerve. As soon as they popped they I started dilating again and stalled out at a nine. Welp they started me on Pitocin (OMFG that was horrible). Up until then I hadnt felt anything so I didnt think I was going to need the Epi. Boy was I wrong. 30 mins after they started the pitocin they asked if I wanted the Epi and I said yes. Generally you dont get it after 8 cm but I still wasnt going any where. When they gave it to me it was a low dosage so I still knew when I needed to push, it still took the edge off (I suggest that). But the Epi was my friend and you can better believe im using it again this time around.

I agree with babycarnell but make sure you fill out the paperwork to be able to get it if needed! I got mine when I was 4cm then like 30mins later I was fully dialated and I could feel my daughters head moving in the canal.....I had a good epidural, I feel, just not pain :) Good luck, it's an awesome experience.

Hi there! As much as I love the idea of birth plans I have found that twice they have gone out the window when labour starts lol! I think that you shouldn't put yourself through tremendous pain so if you feel you aren't coping in labour then have one, but u may find that your body does as it should and you are comfortable enough not to have one. My first I wish I had one as she was facing the wrong way and was difficult but my second was great and loved feeling her come out and immediately said I'd do that again! Why not start off by thinking ill start with gas and air..see how u go then opt for something more if needed. Good luck with whatever u decide! :))