Epidural Question

This is SO not even a worry!!! Seriously...it is a non-issue. A slight prick of the needle...that's about it.

Hi Nancy,
I had to have a c-section, so I had a spinal. That was probably the thing that I was most worried about. To tell you the truth, I didn't even feel the needle going in......they numb the area. It really wasn't bad at all. If you want an epideral, don't worry about them putting it in.

I had an intrathecal-(?spell?) and it was NOTHING! They said I may feel a poke but I didnt at all. Everyone`s different though-But I had it with my last 2 babies.

I do not recall any pain but I had horrible back labor. I am going to play devil's advocate for a moment - yes it takes the pain away which I admit is great however remember like any medication there are side effects.

Some women get horrible headaches/migranes after. I had an entire side of my body go numb during labor and could not move it. Some studies show that medical interventions can actually slow labor - pit, epidural, etc.

You need to find out what all the risks are to make a decision.

I am 20 weeks pregnant right now and plan on going drug free and all natural with this one because I had such a horrible experience with the first.

Nancy,
I had an epidural with both of my boys. I do not remember any pain ( and I am a HUGE baby when it comes to needles).
there was some slight discomfort, but they also used Lidocaine to numb the spot before they inserted the needle. I think that was the most painful part. The releif was worth it completely!! Good luck and congratulations on the little bundle!

I had an epidural for one birth and a spinal for other, and the needle in the back was a non-issue as far as pain. Don't waste any energy worrying about the pain of it. Piece of cake.

PS: I noticed someone mentioned vomiting afterwards--I had c-sections both times, and I did not vomit w/ demerol in my IV, but I *did* with morphine. If one makes you sick, ask for the other drug. (Of course, they would not change the morphine for me to demerol, but one nurse felt sorry for me and just took out the IV and gave me ibuprofin by mouth and I was FINE when they pulled out that IV.)

I don't think the shot hurts that much though it sometimes slows the contractions. I had my third child without anesthetic and I really liked knowing what was going on around me. The first two children I was heavily sedated and couldn't function very well. But that was 40 years ago! May you be blessed with a healthy little one and easy delivery! B.

It did not hurt me anymore than a regular shot would. It was so nice to not feel any contractions.

Hi Nancy,
I am both a nurse and a mom...have seen many an epidural catheter placed, as well as have had one myself. Rest assured, the anesthesiologist will numb the area first with some lidocaine and a very small needle. The only thing you should feel is some pressure as the needle/catheter are inserted. Of course, this is the normal scenario, but I am sure there are going to be those out there who have had unusual/rare experiences. Since you have had labor pains before....the discomfort of those far outweighs getting the epidural placed!!
Good luck!

The epidural is so worth it! I barely felt it. They numb you first, which was nothing compared to the contractions. Then you feel some pressure. Don't worry about this part of the labor - it's no big deal.

I almost threw the epidural guy on the floor and kissed him - I almost immediately was pain free!

If you went through labor before without drugs, you can definitely handle getting an epidural! There is nothing to it. I had a spinal (due to c-section) and did not have even the slightest bit of pain. The foley catheter was worse for me!
Best of luck on baby # 2!

Honestly it does not hurt, believe me, I am very scared of needles and I barely felt it go in. I would never go without one!!

I was in so much agony with the labor that I didn't even feel the needle going in. What a relief once it was in. No more pain and then you can get some sleep before you have to push the baby out. I don't think I could have another baby without it.

Hi Nancy,

I have had a C-section, a natural birth and a VBAC with epidural. My last delivery was the best. The do the epidural in the middle of a contraction so I didn't notice it at all, either time. I was focused on the contraction. I wouldn't worry at all!!

C.

I have had 2 epidurals, and let me tell you, they are amazing! I wanted to kiss my anesthesiologist! I felt no pain what-so-ever when it was administered. The only thing you can feel is when the drug is introduced, it feels like cool water is running down your back. They usually do three injections if I remember correctly, so they don't just go in all the way at one time - they numb you a little first. Do NOT be afraid of it because it will make you able to enjoy the rest of the arrival of your little miracle! I have never taken any pain meds other than for 1 major surgery, and I didn't care for them, but the epidural is just amazing! Good luck and congratulations!

The contractions hurt so much that you don't care how large that needle is. I've had it three times, and just always made it a point to not look at the needle.

I had an epidural with my first child and it just feels like a bee sting when they numb the area with the lidocaine. Then you really shouldn't feel much after that. It was awesome. Best of luck to you.

Epidurals are worth every once of fear you have about them. With in minutes of having one I always get sleepy and am able to rest if not sleep until it is time to push. You will be so less stressed. This is what happens. They clean your back really good then they give you a shot that numbs the area before giving you the edpidural. This shot is like any other shot it stings for a second then you dont feel it. when they give you the epidural you may feel a buzz. (like electricity) You may not. I did not with my 1st but did with my 2nd and 3rd. You will be fine.

They give it to you WHILE you are having a contraction! I didn't know that.

I was in so much pain from the contractions because I waited so long to get it, that when it finally went in, I didn't even care because I just wanted to have some relief! It hurt quite a bit going in, but only for a few seconds, and then the S., S. relief set in almost instantly and I took a GLORIOUS nap.

Seriously worth the discomfort it causes going in, if you ask me -- I'm definitely planning on another one with my next baby. Don't worry about it, it's less painful than the contractions, that's for sure!

Hi Nancy. Don't let anyone talk you out of getting an epidural if that's what you really want! If the drugs were harmful to the baby, it wouldn't be an option! Also, when someone has a c-section, a spinal is absolutely necessary and totally fine! Anyway... I had an epidural almost four years ago. Have you ever had a mole removed? They numb the area and it burns just a little at first and then you feel nothing. That's what they do before they put the bigger needle in! You should not feel it at all! You did it without drugs once. You know the pain. The three seconds or so of burning is nothing! Best of luck to you! I hope everything goes exactly the way you want it to!

If you need an epidural, you won't mind the needle. I didn't feel it at all when it went in, but sure felt the blessed relief it provided. Don't be too fixated on the epidural though - my third child, everything went so fast there wasn't time for one, and that increased the stress because I had not entertained that possibility. Just take things as they come.

It was no big deal, I was begging for it, the sooner they could get it in the better. Three kids later and I survived the births. Now I just need to keep up with the day to day stuff of life. Best of luck with your new baby. :)

NANCY,
Maybe it's all in who is doing the procedure to make it less painful. But I had an epidural with my last son, at U/M, and I too have a high pain tolerance.

I'd rather gargle glass. I had a spinal tap a few years later and wouldn't want to do that again either. If I can avoid it at all I don't want any needles in my spine.

There's no way to sugar coat it. It hurts.

Hello, Nancy! I had an epidural with my 2nd..if the your doctor who does this procedure is any good, no..you won't feel anything. I sat on the edge of the bed (legs dangling), hugging a pillow. I would let him know when my contraction was done, and he would proceed with the needle. He never messed with the needle while I was having a contraction. I felt slight pressure..more from his hand, I think, but no pain. Hope that helps! L.-

I never had any pain at all - just a little tickle feeling.

I wasn't comfortable. While they had numbed up the skin, I could still feel them threading the cathetor into my spine, I felt electric shocks in my legs, and had a bruised and painful back for about a week after.

BTW I absolutely hated the Epidural after I got it. I hated the sensation I had in my legs, and that they were basically dead weight. I hated not being able to move to a more comfortable position without help.

Also Epidurals increase the risk of c-sections, they can reduce your blood pressure causing baby to go into distress, they prevent you from being able to move around (if baby is sunny side up, or in a slightly weird position you won't be able to help baby move his/her head) They reduce the effectivness of pushing because you can't feel as much.

If you've done natural labor before, you can do it again AND it will probably be easier because you know what to expect this time.

the problem i had was that the meds went to the wrong place and made me DIZZY - like the world was spinning and all the blood drained from my face. So they had to take it out and do it again. and i just didnt like not being able to move at all.

Hi Nancy,
My response will probably be a tad different than everyone elses!! I teach HypnoBirthing, a childbirthing method to help our bodies relax. It helps our bodies do what it knows how to do, give birth. Most moms don't use epidurals when using this method, it trains our bodies to feel sensations other than pain, so the drug is not needed. Yup, I know it sounds crazy, but I did it twice and it works. Even my moms who needed true medical c-sections due to things like toxemia, say HB relaxation helped with the spinal needle insertion.

I have a private teaching practice in downtown Rochester and I also teach the method out of Crittenton Hospital starting in Feb. If you want more info, go to www.YourPeacefulBirthing.com.

Good Luck with whatever your decision is!!
J.

Hi,
So the epidural is NOT as bad as it seems. I guess it depends on the anisthologist as well. I am honestly the biggest wimp ever, I would get anxiety even thinking about the pain of child birth, but I knew I wanted the epidural with the same line of thought you have I figured I wouldnt care during labor. I got my epidural very very early on, with just minor contractions, when the guy came in with the huge hollow needle I was scared. Here is how it goes, they prep you wich is the longest part, then they numb you with a regular size needle, you do feel this prick, and it feels like a shot in the arm, my guy waited a sec for the local numbing to kick in and then stuck me 3 more times with the small needle, which I swear I did not feel. After that he put the epidural in my back, again i swear I didn't feel it AT ALL, I asked him if I should not move to prepare and he laughed and said its already done, he was just taping the line to my back. A friend of mine had a spinal (which is a bit diffrent) in an emergency situation and she said hers hurt, but who knows how gentle they were being an emergency. I would honestly reccomend an epidural to anyone and everyone!! I had a long and stalled labor so after 14 hours my epidural ran out, they just hooked up more drugs and we proceeded to a c-ection. If you have any more questions please feel free to contact me, the epidural was the bet thing I did, after I had it i slept though most of my labor, and when i was awake I didn't feel the contractions we would just watch them on the monitor amazed I didn't feel them.
Good luck!
A.

Hi Nancy! I had an epi with my son who is now almost 20 months old. When I was in labor I had back labor, which if you haven't had that, I pray you never do...it's horrible! I got my epi at about 4 cm and had to wait two hours to get one because the dr who gives them was called to an emergency. So in the meantime they gave me demorol (sp?) and I was tired and out of it. I laid in bed falling asleep between contractions (which were lasting 30 seconds every 1 1/2 mins), by the time they came I was just so happy to have it. It hurt but it was tollerable!! If you're in a lot of pain you won't really notice it! You'll be okay, good luck to you!

Wow, Im not about to read all 81 responses...suffice it to say that I sincerely HOPE they are 81 positive responses. Everybody knows somebody with a horror story about labor, but they are usually not as bad as they claim! I am all for the epidural. It doesn't harm the baby and is performed safely in skilled hands! I see no reason to go through the pain of labor if you choose not to. In the end, the prize is the same, and we all get to go home with a baby no matter how we chose to bring it into the world. I hope you don't let the super moms of the world, who think they have some edge on the rest of us by going thru natural childbirth, get you down!

Although my husband had to leave the room for a second when they brought out the needle (sissy), I don't remember it at all. I only remember the nurse trying to restart my IV at the same time and peeling tape SLOWLY off of my forearm. Don't worry about the needle...you won't remember it. They will numb the area with a local, first, and that feels like a little tingling...after that you'll be golden!

Good luck and happy pain-free birthing to you!

~L.

Oh yes, I should add this...first child - epidural - 20 minutes pushing him out...second child - epidural - 15 minutes pushing him out...third child - spinal (c-sec)...no ill effects from any!!

Nancy,

I have to say honestly that while the needle obviously hurts some if you have a great anasthesiologist(sp) then it's not bad. I had an epidural with both my children and it was great. With my first child I was left in the room with only the nurse and the doctor because my husband is afraid of needles and his mother decided to leave the room with him instead of staying to help me. My nurse was great and just had me hug her so that I wouldn't move. And if you had your first child natural I am pretty confident that you will be able to handle the epidural with no problem.

Good luck
J.

i had 2 kids and an epidural with each delivery.

The first epidural was wonderful. The dr put it in my back I said I felt a bit dizzy.. they suggested I lay down. ( the medicine can make you a bit dizzy-) I barely felt anything the dr got the epidural in on the first try. It is not a big needle - it is going in a very small space so it is a small needle.

with the second delivery I was trying to be brave so I didnt ask for the epidural until hte pain was pretty bad. I was having pretty strong contractions and it was hard for me to be still for the dr. He had a hard time getting the needle in the right place. I think he tried 3 times. Each time I felt a "ZING" down one of my legs. He did get the epidural in - but he could not give me the bolus as they normally do.

The epidural worked and I didnt feel a thing as my 8 pound 8 oz baby was born.

Get the epidural before you are in severe pain.. that way you will be able to relax and it will be much eaiser on everyone.

It really is great. and I was able to walk within 30 minutes of delivery....

PS.. second babies come a lot quicker than first babies..

I do not remember the pain of the needle, only the instant reflief! I had an awesome epidural. I hardly felt anything. They numb the area right before, so you really feel very little. Hope that helps.

Nancy,
Hello :) I had an epidural with both of my boys (3 1/2 & 2 now) and of everything that goes on in the delivery room, it was never anything that stood out in my memory afterward as being super painful... I was in so much pain as it was - I had to be induced a week after my due date with both of my boys which caused my contractions to come on stronger, faster, and closer together - and the epidural took effect so quickly that it really never much bothered me. I would say, for me, it was mostly just an uncomfortable feeling. The downside to an epidural, of course, is not being able to feel anything or move around. I had to have a catheter (sp?) put in for my urine and at one point I did have uncontrolable shaking. All that said... I would definitely have one again if need be - it allowed me to completely focus on my baby and not on the pain. I was able to truly enjoy the beauty of the moment. Hope this helps and hope all goes well in the delivery room! Happy Holidays!

K. :)

I've had 2 epidurals with both kids--they are amazing. I was in labor when both epidurals were given to me and they were painless compared to the actual pain I felt with the labor. I would never go natural since I'm a big chicken when it comes to pain. I've never had any problems after the epidurals either.

MC

Hi Nancy,

When I had my daughter in August 2007, I went in thinking it was going to be totally natural. LIttle did I know it wouldn't be. Long story short I ended up going for the epidural because after 16 hours of HARD labor I couldn't take it anymore, thankfully I went that route because my daughter had the cord wrapped around her neck 4 times and had to be delivered via c-section.

Anyway, for me, I don't even remember the needle going in. I was contracting basically non-stop with no down town for about 8 hours by that time, so I was feeling the contractions so much I didn't know anything else was going on. HOWEVER, the bad part for me was having to remain PERFECTLY STILL THROUGH A CONTRACTION. Yes, you can not move, at all. A person is sticking a needle in your spine, it is ESSENTIAL you remain still. Obviously. Also, once they clean your back the area from your sides back is considered sterile... so no leaning back, no putting your hands to the side, nothing. What worked for me was having my husband sit in a chair in front of me. They raised up the bed so I was much higher then he was. I put my feet on his knees and he held my hands. I squeezed the living daylights out of his hands... poor man. But we got through it.

That being said... it REALLY depends on WHEN you get your epi. A friend of mine got it a bit earlier then I did. She was contracting...but wasn't in the heat of it ... and she did feel it, and she said it hurt, bad. In addition, her anethesiologist wasn't that great... it took 3 times! So, having a GOOD anethesiologist is essential. One time. That's all you want. I threatened mine. lol My mom is a nurse and I've had a couple of surgeries with spinals before... I knew the routine ...I told him he BETTER be good and get it first time. I couldn't sit there through another contraction while he did that.

I will say, although I'm generally not one to go for the drugs... in that instance it was a good choice. Had I not done it I might not have been awake for the birth of my baby since it was a bit of an immediate decision. The epi was wonderful ... I got some sleep and was able to rest a bit. That being said, if we have another I am going to try for a home water birth. :-)

Good luck!

I am the biggest wimp when it comes to needles. I get so worked up that my ob knows to draw my blood prior to taking any blood pressure readings because it never fails. On blood draw days, my blood pressure reading will skyrocket.

I had an epidural with both of my children. While I am scared of needles, the pain of childbirth and contractions hurt soo much worse! Trust me, if you made it through natural child birth, getting an epidural is nothing!

On my first child, the anesthesiologist literally poked me 10 times to get the epidural in (don't worry this isn't normal--I have pretty bad scoliosis in my lower back so he couldn't get it centered and kept trying--lucky me!). Anyways, it wasn't that bad. It does hurt a little, but contractions are much worse.

For me, the epi's were GREAT! Labor felt like period cramps after the epi's kicked in. I only pushed for a half hour with my first baby and 10 minutes with my second.

Good luck!

I was in so much labor pain by the time I got my epidural that I didn't even notice the pain of the needle. The relief came right away! I wouldn't worry about that needle one bit!

Well, for one thing, you're usually already having contractions by the time you have the epidural so a little needle prick isn't going to hurt at all. They do a local on you before they put it in so you won't feel it at all. The hardest part is that they tell you to sit in a position that really isn't very comfy and then tell you to sit REALLY still which isn't very easy to do with a big ol belly and contractions!

I would totally do it again though. The best decision ever. I was able to sleep and rest and read & chat through the worst part of the contractions. It was relaxing and wonderful.

The most surprising part is the tape! The guy just said, "I'm done and I'm going to tape it now so you won't pull it out during labor" and I was like "okay". Then he pulls out this roll of tape the size of a roll of Saran Wrap and completely covers my back with it! Totally weird!

I absolutely hate needles and have a low pain tolerance. Had an epidural with both births. By the time you need one you're in so much pain from the contractions you could care less what they're doing to your back. Previous posters are right, the numbing before the epidural is worse than the epidural itself. You do feel it being threaded. Having to have 3 IVs (because the first 2 failed) on the first birth was WAY worse than the epidural.

I had an issue with the first birth of the epidural lasting too long afterwards and being so powerful I couldn't even feel the pressure of the baby coming down (and he was a 9lb baby!). With the second, one side of my body didn't want to numb and I had be repositioned to get it to work.

The contractions are so bad, that the needle isn't a big deal. The relief it gives outweigh any discomfort. It didn't really hurt when they did mine. (I had one with both my kids) My back was sore for a week later. I may have had back labor also, so not sure what to blame it on. LOL! I'd get another one if I was to go through another delivery! Good luck!

I've had three C-Sections and therefore three spinals.......and I can honestly say that non of them hurt at all. I didnt have the 'distraction' of being in labor either since they were all scheduled C's. I have a pretty low pain threshold, so you needn't worry at all. Good Luck !

2 epidurals here. One given during a contraction for an emergency c-section...kind of felt it a little bit, but it was over so quick, I really could have cared less about it. The other was given for a planned c-section, so no labor or anything, I just had to sit still and hold my breath and take it...no big deal! It is the equivalent of getting your blood drawn, I guess. It is over with so quick, who cares in the end, you won't even remember it. Find your happy place and breath during it. I spend soooo much time under the knife that I have really learned to deal with pain by going to my "happy place", which is my own personal breathing technique that I think I heard about somewhere a long time ago, but made into my own version, which is what you have to do anyhow. Labor is where my "happy place started". As a contraction tightens, think of the ocean pulling back away from the shore...this is pain and you breath in. At the end of the highest peak, when the height of the pain is over, it all releases and the waves roll back to the shore and you breath out. Of course, as you get better at this, you can just stay on the beach and you can forget about the pain part and just build a sandcastle or catch some sun, whatever floats your boat while the pain is going on and you are ignoring it. Lots of mind tricks you can use to bypass pain. Nonetheless, this particular procedure really doesn't hurt as much as some may make it out to be.

Oh, it was sooo wonderful. My first 2 deliveries were w/o an epidural. They went fine. But when I got pregnant at 42 and was in labor, I thought to myself, "I'm too old to go through this again!"

I asked for an epidural, I asked the anesthesiologist that I would tell him when my contraction would pass so that I wouldn't make any sudden moves on him because of the pain. He obliged. As he was working and I began feeling another contraction coming, I warned him of it so that he knew if I did move it was because of the contraction.

Having the epidural tube be put in did not take long at all. Within about 15 minutes (forever in labor) the pain was gone.

I even got to take a 1 hour nap before pushing.

When you get to the hospital and they ask you for your name, it's EPIDURAL!

I had one with both my kids and don't recall the pain being an issue, I guess when you're in labor anything else seems easy. What you should be careful of is that you are not over medicated as I was the first time around. You really need to feel your contractions or else you won't be able to push and you will take that much longer to deliver. Have just enough to take the edge off the pain but still feel the urge to push. For my second child I was given the pain meds only towards the end and he delivered much faster than my first who lanquished for three hours. good luck to you.

S.

Nancy,

Congrats on expecting your second baby!! I have two boys who keep me busier than I could have ever imagined. My first birth was a necessary c-section (first-born was footling breech - an almost impossible position to try a vaginal birth). My second was a natural, unmedicated, vaginal (VBAC - vaginal birth after cesarian), and it was wonderful (not pain free, mind you, but still an amazing experience!). You say you can handle pain pretty well...I would encourage you to think about other pain/discomfort management techniques in an effort to have an unmedicated delivery. There are LOTS of things you can do to help manage the discomfort/pain. Statistics show that an unmedicated delivery is it healthier for both the baby and the mama, and statistics also show that one medical intervention, such as an epidural, increases the likelihood of other medical interventions. I would encourage you to get as much information as you can about all the options related to childbirth so that you can make informed choices about your birth, and if an epidural is the way you decide to go, then you will do so from an informed position, and not out of fear (of pain).

Best wishes for a beautiful birth!

I honestly did not feel the needle going in for the epidural. I was in so much pain before hand, they could have cut off my hand and I would't have noticed. HA! Anyway, for me the epidural was the best gift! I was able to lay and rest for an hour before pushing. Good luck!

two things... first congrats on another baby!!! Second (and third) You won't care what it feels like, because the other pain is worse. If you went through labor once, you can get the epidural.
I still felt the urge to push during contractions, so it was good. But the pain NO!!!

Have a great pregnancy and birthing experience.
P.

I had no problem with the needle feel of the epideral. It's the holding perfectly still while your haveing contractions that was the hardest part. But really was not bad at all... But everyone is different, but if you went through labor o'naturale, I think you can handle a needle poke,.

Hi Nancy,
When I had my daughter almost 2 years ago, I thought I was going to be "brave" and go without an epidural. Long story short, I was induced using Pitocin and the contractions were becoming unbearable (I have always had a low pain tolerance). I was also afraid of the whole needle in the back idea, but to be honest with you my anesthesiologist was amazing.....I never felt ANYTHING!! When he said he was done, I didn't even known he had started. Once the medicine kicked in, the rest of the labor was a breeze. A bit of advice though, once you are ready to push, ask the nurse to turn it down or off. I could sometimes feel the need to push and other times couldn't, so I had to rely on my husband and nurse to tell me when. Then my doctor asked the nurse to turn my epidural way down and I could feel the urge to push better. Good luck :)
W.

Honestly, it brought tears to my eyes. I'm such a wimp, though, I was thankful the pain associated with the contrations was removed. In the past, I was nervous over regular injections, but got them anyway. I was also nervous about giving blood. Now, NOTHING compares to the pain I felt getting the epidural. It's totally worth it, though. Do NOT fear, you won't regret it. There's something in the hospital food or hormones or something that makes you forget.

Each experience is soo different, so there is no way to really know what will happen. For me, the 1st one I had- i didn't feel anything! It was soo easy, but I think it worked too well because I couldn't feel anything to push and the pushing process took 2.5 hours - but maybe that was just because it was my 1st. With my 2nd (just born 10/31), OMG it hurt soo bad going in, like a dam sword going in my back!! And then they kept yelling at me to stay still, ya easy for them to say they weren't the one having an insane contraction at the same time as being stabbed with a sword, lol! So, it just all depends on the person doing it and where they put it I guess. This time around it didn't work no where near as well as the first one. It took away the contractions but when it came time to push, I got this HORRIBLE urge to push (heard of but never felt the first time) and pressure down there, OMG it was horrible. Needless to say, I turned into one of those screaming nuts you see on TV this time around, lol! I felt everything . My Doctor told me that epidurals can take anywhere from 20-100% and he said that mine was only around 50% this time. It was totally done working by the time the pushing started. OUCH.. Good luck, I hope the person doing yours is like the one that did my 1st one :)
Congratulations on your 2nd baby

Hi Nancy,

I have had an epidural with all my kids. Well the last one didn't go to well they forgot to turn it on so I only had half a dose. But if you made it through the pain of the delivery without it the first time you can handle the pain of the epidural. They are very nice and wait until you are ready to do it. I will tell you from experance if you stress yourself out about it, it will hurt much worse than it really does, I did that my first time. The second time I had a picture of my oldest daughter and just looked at that it really didn't hurt all that much, but I also wasn't that stressed over it the second time. It also makes the birth better, you remember the happy time and not the pain.
I'm sure you'll do just fine as long as you make it to the hospital in time :o)

S.

I would stay away from the epidural. Any drugs put into you get to your baby. You did it once without it and 2nd time around you know what to expect and can be more relaxed. You can do it!!

Hi Nancy - the epidural pain was SO minimal compared to labor pains. I've given birth with and without (also got to hospital too late) and I would definitely go with the epidural - but don't let them let it wear off for the pushing bit - first of three kids, that's what happened, and it was horrible. Third one worked a charm - best delivery. Good luck - Alison

I am a WIMP and would describe the epidural as uncomfortable, not painful. It is nothing compared to labor!!!! Good luck:)

I had an epidural with both my children. I would recommend them in a heartbeat. You don't feel anything! They numb the area and it pretty much painless. The only thing I had was a side effect of itching afterwards that noone told me about and then I couldn't figure out why I was itching so bad a few hours after I had my son. Just watch for that because they just give you benedryl. Not a big deal.

Hi Nancy,
I also had my first son 4.5 years ago, and am pregnant with my second due in March ... ha! In any case,the epidural was more mentally scary than anything else really. Because you are having contractions, it really isn't that bad. The local they give first is worse than the big needle itself. The local kind of burns, but the big needle just sort of feels like a strange "pop"and really that is it.
Now for my qualifier ... your body type plays a BIG part into the epidural, tall women like myself (I am 5'10") have an easier time with the epidural. Also if you are more fit, you have an easier time with it. My sister-in-law who is 5'3" and somewhat overweight had a tough time as she had to have it done two or three times, I forget. And I think she was miserable because the thing wasn't working not because of the poke itself. The reason is if you are relatively fit, the doctor can feel the spine easier and know where his target is and doesn't have to poke sort of blind through tissue. So that is all I know about it. Unless something goes wrong, I am definitely having an epidural again, it was lovely, I just slept while my husband watched the contraction monitor!

Don't work yourself up over it. Had an epidural 3 times ( and I am horrible, vomit puking sick over needles even at 35) and didn't have any discomfort or side effects or pain from it. The pain I do remember was waiting for the contraction to finish so they could put the epi in. Don't worry about the needle size, sign up for it as soon as you hit the hospital door so you aren't filling out paperwork in the middle of labor (you can still choose later not to do it if you can make it through without since you tell them when you want it.) when they bring in the kit have them just do it and tell them not to be showing you any of the stuff. I would go do an epi just for fun now I am so secure with how mine went.
Yes, people want to do it natural- but there is no prize for so hyper extending yourself to be able to say you did it without. Both my Labors were induced, and horribly long and painful even with childbirth classes and I consider myself to have a high pain threshold. Save your energy for holding your perfectly healthy newborn painfree.
PS Skip "A Baby Story" if you are watching them. They are so edited they aren't even a clear picture of what you will go through.
Good Luck!
C. L.

My first EP I got really late and was in constant contractions. Because I could not relax my back it was the most painful thing ever and the only time I cried. Now heres the good news. The first resulted in a C-section so I had to get a repeat c-section. I had to get a spinal. I was so scared of it hurting. I went in and all I felt is a little poke like giving blood and some coolness in my back. It was painless. Difference was I could relax and breath. So just make sure you get your EP before your contractions are too close together. I also dont know if there is a difference in needle between the spinal and EP. But the spinal did not hurt!

Needle definatley hurts, but not nearly as bad as LABOR!! Good Luck! I tell all my friends, Don't think you're being a hero by not getting one! Already you are a hero cause you're a MOM!!

Shelly :)

I have back problems (low back) where they were going to put the needle. I was scared to death but it wasn't as bad as I had made it out to be. Just relax and make sure that someone is keeping your mind occupied while they are doing the procedure. I would not change it for anything. Both times I was glad to get them with both births.

I had an epidural with my first birth and I absolutely HATE needles. The thought of a huge needle being inserted next to my spine terrified me but my labor was so painful and prolonged that the nurses encouraged me to get one or it was possible I would not have the energy to push and would end up with a c-section anyway. So I went ahead with it and it was not that bad. I was more scared than it was painful. Not to mention labor was so much easier, I was able to relax and take a nap and after laboring for 20 hours I gave birth 4 hours after the epidural. The pain of labor is much worse than having the needle put in. Congratulations and good luck!

Hi Nancy!

I had an epidural with my son and it did not hurt at all. THe IV in my hand hurt more! Sometimes on t.v. the women say it hurts, so I don't know if the guy who did mine was "just that good" or what, but I braced myself for pain, and it never came. I was surprised when he said he was done.

Considering I ended up with an episiotomy and a tear and stitches, I am VERY glad I had it!!!!

Good luck!

I didn't feel the needle at all or the needles used first to numb the area! The doctor does it while you have a contraction (at least mine did) so it was over before I even knew it. I sure hope I don't get to the hospital late this time because the epidural was GREAT!

The epidural did not hurt me at all. It was nerve racking more than anything because you can't move at all, even if you are having a contraction at the moment... but pain... no... I was so happy to have the pain go away!!! For me, it was a godsend!! Good luck!!

I have had three babies and have had epidurals with all three. I can tell you that by the time they were ready to give it to me, they could have stuck the needle in my EYE and I wouldn't have cared! Seriously, it is not that bad and I am a pretty big wimp. They are very good about talking you through it and the relief it brings is worth it (particularly if you've been given pitocin). I was much more relaxed and happier after the epidural and the time seemed to go a little faster. Best of luck to you!

I think the worst part of getting the epidural is trying to be perfectly still while they do it. For me it never failed that I'd have a major contraction at the same moment that the needle was going in. I honestly don't remember any pain caused by the epidural needle. Good luck!

It hurts about as much as the shot you get from the dentist before they fill a cavity - that is a pretty good comparison from me. I had 3 children - the first 2 I got there too late and had to go natural; the third I was able to have an epidural. Wow - what a difference!! It was pretty much a pain free delivery! And if the nurse times it right, it won't slow down the delivery either (can't remember exactly, but I think somewhere around 4 - before or after that will have other affects).

I don't remember it hurting at all...but like you said, by that time, you either don't care or there are other things that hurt much more. I do remember the cold sensation, though.

Nancy ~
As an OB nurse, I can tell you that most women say that it is definitely worth getting. I don't know how your doctor is, so I can only speak for the doctors I work with..... most of them want you to be in active labor, dilated to about 4cm before you get the epidural. Keep in mind that since it's your 2nd baby, you could be dilated (even to 4cm) for several weeks before you actually deliver. Our policy is that you need 1 full IV bag of fluids and your blood work back (they both take about the same amount of time), anesthesia comes in an asks your medical history, then they sit you up on the side of the bed (at our hospital, family has to leave the room, but that varies by hospital). The anesthesiologist will clean your back with betadine, drape the area, numb the area with local .... most people say that's the worst part...it kind of feels like a bee sting...then they use the needle (that you won't see!) and you'll feel pressure. Once it's in, they give you some medicine, take the drape off, and tape everything in place. Our epidurals are hooked to a pump so that you get a continuous infusion of the medicine. You will probably have contractions during the procedure, so you have to sit completely still.

Now, because it's your 2nd baby, and you went fast with your 1st, you may not be able to get it.....sorry.... you may be too far and going too fast to get it (our anesthesia department won't place the epidural after 8cm, but again, that varies by hospital). But don't go in at the first twinge because you have your heart set on getting it. Otherwise, you could be going in alot, or get stuck there in early labor, not allowed to walk around, eat, etc.

Please feel free to email me if you have any questions.
good luck!
D.

I had the epidural with my daughter 4 years ago because i was high-risk and my labor was induced two weeks early. I was terrified because it was my first child and i read all the horror stories about botched procedures. I can tell you i only felt the initial pinch and didn't feel a thing until hours later when the strong pain meds. Were gone. But the joy of holding a tiny little life in my hands numbed any other pain i felt.

However, i did not get an epidural with my 2nd child 1 year ago (not by choice also) by the time the nurse got me up to l&d it was too late, not that i didn't get to the hospital in enough time. The nurse could not see my contractions on the monitor so she kept telling me i was not in labor and was about to send me home. I can laugh about this now but at the time i wanted the epidural because of the pain.
My son did not want to wait for the doctor either (she was in surgery with another patient) i asked for the epidural again and i guess the anes.doctor was on his way with it because as he enter the room so did my little bundle of joy. I still not sure why i paid for delivering my own child? ;)

Hi Nancy, I just had a baby a year ago and I had an epidural. It was NOTHING! I mean I felt a little poke in my back when they numbed the area then after that it was just a strange sensation but no pain! Plus compared to the contractions I was having it was again NOTHING! It relaxed me and I was able to give birth comfortably they kind of lower the meds when you give birth so you can still feel it but its just not as bad from what I hear but the contractions were hardly anything once I got the epidural. Just before I got it I was dilated between a 4 and 5 and I was in a lot of pain already with contractions. Once I got the epidural I felt a lot better. So no worries:) If you already gave birth naturally you will be amazed at the difference. Good luck with everything:)

I felt NO PAIN at all getting the epidural. Piece of cake!

My son just turned 6 on Thanksgiving. When I had him, I made it clear that I wanted an epidural. When I got to the hospital, I was given a pain reliever almost immediately and after a couple hours, they gave me the epidural. I felt a little bit of pressure, but no major pain from that needle. My biggest problem was keeping my back straight, My only issue was timing, because an hour after my epidural my contractions sped up and when it was time to push I couldn't feel much but that's not the norm.

The epidural hurts for a few moments, but the medication also kicks in really quickly and then you don't feel much. With my son, I was induced using cervidil and used Morphine instead of an epidural, but with my daughter, they induced me with petocin and whoa ... I was begging for the epidural AFTER the Morphine. My biggest problem with the epidural is that after I had my daughter, I had trouble urinating and still to this day, I have some problems going, but the epidural made me think, "pain, what pain?" Good luck!

Okay-honestly-I cannot even remember the pain of the needle..all I remember thinking is get that epidural in so my labor pains will ease up a little!
Don't worry about it-and don't take a look at the needle and freak yourself out!
Good Luck-it will be fine!

I think everybody is a little different. My best friend said it hurt but it was nothing compared to the contractions and well worth it. I myself had it done and I didn't feel any pain. It felt weird, but not painful. If you biggest concern is of the pain of the epidural, don't worry about it. If you do have any pain it won't last long and the results will be worth it!!

Nancy -

Although I've never had an epidural before, I am a clinical massage therapist and I would advise against having an epidural based purely on my personal experience with working on various clients. I've seen several clients during my practice, both male and female, who have suffered from long-term problems after receiving an epidural. These problems include pinched nerves, scar tissue, back spasms, and muscle atrophy at the injection site. I've never been one to think that a few hours of pain relief is worth a lifetime of problems. I'm not saying all epidurals are bad - there are plenty of people that have had epidurals without incident. But personally that's not a gamble that I'm willing to take. There are lots of other pain management strategies regarding labor pains like massage, stretching, breathing exercises, water birthing, even walking around or enlisting the help of a doula. I would suggest you research other options for pain management. Besides, the effects of the epidural medication pass on to your baby, making them sometimes limp and semi-conscious at the time of birth. Sure, it wears off, but that's not how you want to welcome your baby into the world, both of you drugged up, is it? Please don't take my comment as me trying to scare you, I'm just trying to help you be more informed so you can make an educated decision. I hope that you will make the choice that is right for you, your family, and your situation. Congratulations on your upcoming baby!

If you had your last child without anything, an epidural will be nothing. It will be worth it. I had it done with my daughter and I don't remember if it was extremly painful, but I do remember that they never came back with the drip to keep it going so I had felt ALL the pain in having her.

Its not as bad as those terrible contractions that you will be experiencing. When they're done its like "Ahhhhhhh". Good luck!

Since so many people weighed in on the pro side f the epidural I have to go with the con.
1st baby, I had an unplanned c section with an epidural I was so worried about the baby that Ididn't give much thought to the epidural.
2nd baby, I got the epidural after 24hrs of labor and it hurt like hell. They had to try 3 or 4 times before they got it right. I will addmit that the relief fromthe pain was welcomed and enjoyed. After the delivery I had a soar almost bruised feeling on my spine for almost 6 months, not very pleasent.
3rd baby, I had an all natural labor and water birth at the U of M in AnnArbor. THe tub was amazing. It was very soothing and the pain was very tolerable. The only part that really hurt was the actual pushing and that was only for a short time and when it was done it was done!!
Something that I have learned is that we feel pain for a reason and that it can be a good thing. Also our bodies are amazing and produce hormones that make us "forget" the pain of childbirth. The epidural can minimze the release of that hormone so you actually remember more of the pain than you are supposed to.
Visulize and mind over body. Your mind is a very powerful thing and can help you to manage the pain of childbirth.
I know that I may have given more of my opinion than was asked but after having a natural childbirth I honestly believe that it is the better choice.
You are a strong woman and can handle...you already did!!
Blessings, K.

It isn't too bad. They will use some medication to numb up the spot where they are going to put in the "big needle", it is like the novacaine they use at the dentist office. You shouldn't feel any pain after that, but you will feel pressure. The doctor or nurse that puts it in will push on your back to find the right spot, that will be the pressure you feel. Sometimes you can feel a twitch or quick shooting pain in your leg, that is because they are looking for the right spot in your spinal column and may touch a nerve. Sometimes they have to try more than once to get it in. It took about an hour before they finally got mine in, they usually take about 15 minutes, but it didn't hurt at all and I was really glad I got one! Good luck, I hope I didn't scare you!

To me .. i wouldnt say it was that bad .. they start the epidural in the middle of a contraction if i am correct... so i dont think i felt much .. i didnt want to look at the needle so im not sure how big it was but i will say it was well worth it ...just remember dont move while they are doing it .. also i think you get like a cold feeling down your back ...

I had an epidural with both of my deliveries. I honestly don't even remember the needle, I just remember the RELIEF. What a great invention! Good luck! ;)

I had the numbing drug they can give you through IV first ( I forget the name), but then I had the edpidural. The first time it was a little uncomfy, however, I later found out that it either wasn't in right or my body didn't take it, becuase I felt everything with the labor. The second time I got it, it was painless to get and works awesome!! My son's head was almost out before I started to complain about a little discomfort...not realizing I was semi-pushing him out by myself. Good luck with it!

I was an L&D nurse for years, I always told my patients when they asked the same question--if you got an epidural on a "normal" day you'd think "wow that really hurts!"---but if you are in active labor (not early uncomfortable labor)when you can't walk, talk, or think during a contraction--the epidural will not be bad. The worst part is holding still through a contraction. If you can do that your smooth sailing. Good luck!

I have three boys all vaginal delivery, two with the pit drip and general pain meds. I never had an epidural so can't tell you what to expect but most of the women I know that did have an epidural eventually had severe back issues. They also told me they had problems pushing when it was time because they couldn't feel or control the abdominal muscles necessary for delivery. I would really think long and hard as to if it's what you really want to do. Good luck to you no matter which way you decide to go.

you know it is true you forget the pain you go through when in labor. i don't remeber the needle hurting but trying to sit still hunched over while having contractions was the hard part.
my second daughter i waited to get the epidural a little while and had iv drugs (that was the best thing)
i would suggest you do that becasue if you get the epidural too soon it can slow your labor

Nancy,
It doesn't hurt that much-- and believe me, when it takes effect you'll be the happiest woman alive The hardest part is holding still, because you usually are in between contractions when you get one. I've had 2 and great results both times!
Good luck.

The pain from the needle is small in comparison to the contractions. I wouldn't really describe it as pain either, more of a pressure. Kind of like a stuffy nose, only in your back. Once they get it inserted into the right spot and taped down, they pull out the needle and just leave a plastic casing in (kind of like a plastic needle). You don't even feel that at all. My second epidural was a lot easier than my first child, but that was because the contractions were further apart (learned from the first) so they were able to get it in between the contractions. It's really painful to maintain the position and hold still like they need you to during a contraction!

I really didn't think getting the epidural hurt at all. But here's a thought...even if the epidural DOES hurt, its only temporary and much less painful than enduring contractions and childbirth!

Honestly, I've had 2 kids and 2 epidurals. The lidocaine injection that they initially use burns, but after that...I would definately recommend the epidural. I can handle pain pretty well, but I don't think I could've handled my son (8 lb 12 0z) without the epidural. Like I said, after the initial lidocaine they use to numb up the site, it's all pretty easy. A little pressure in your back, but nothing compared to contractions!

Hi Nancy. This is what my anesthesiologist told me when I got an epidural with my first: if it hurts, it's not in the right place. He took his time and found the place where I didn't feel anything. I'm glad he told me this, because with my second I was able to guide them to the right place as well, and not only was there no trouble with the epidural, I believe the lack of pain helped give me energy when I really needed it. Hope this helps. Congrats and good luck!

Honestly, since you will most likely already be having labor pains....you will be concentrating so hard on trying to get through those pains that you won't even feel the needle. Plus, they numb the area first with an ointment or something. I did not feel ANYTHING when they gave me the epidural....and I loved it. AFter the birth I proclaimed it was a piece of cake because I didn't feel a thing..it was great. I am actually looking forward to the birth of our second because I know I will be okay. You will be fine!!

It was the vomiting and migraine afterwards that I didn't like. Don't remember the needle part.