How Did You Decide on Which Pain Medication to Use During Delivery?

My first son was actually born by c-section, and my other two boys were natural births. Have faith in your body and the amazing process that childbirth is. It wasn't until my second delivery that I really understood what our bodies do to deliver. Will your husband be there with you? Have a really great partner in the room with you to maintain focus. I also used essential oils for relaxation. Talk to your doctor so that you have a say in the kind of delivery that you want. I found it very empowering to deliver naturally.

You might want to check out some natural birth classes (available usually through the hospital)to find out more info about a birth without any medication. I had one precious little girl without medication and am pregnant with my second and plan on a natural birth again. I am afraid of needles as well and although I am sure that others are right when they tell me needles will hurt less then birth pains I made the right choice for myself. The other benefits I found were that I could walk around and shower soon after birth and I was able to nurse immediately after birth as my baby was not drugged. I think the pain is much more manageable then one might think but I don't know that I could have done it without the support of my husband, helping with breathing and relaxation techniques. A doula can also help with that aspect. My advice would be to research all your options and then pick one that you feel most comfortable with.

Dear T.,

Having given birth once, naturally (vaginally and without any medication), I can say that if you are well-prepared (physically and mentally--that is, by being relatively fit, doing the recommended pregnancy excercises etc, and informing yourself about the process through reading, talking to other mothers, etc), the pain of childbirth is not as hard to go through. Also, even with the epidural, as I understand it, you will still feel some discomfort because they can't give it to you until a you're dilated a certain amount, so it's really only the very end that you won't be feeling (granted, that's when contractions are strongest, but that's also when your body can help the baby most by feeling when you need to push). The key to riding it out is not to allow them to tie you down with monitors etc so that you have to lay down (yes, contraction are very painful if you lie on your back!), but to make sure you are able to move about, stand against the wall, sit in a hot shower/tub, whatever makes you feel best.

There 's a lot more info I could give you--let me know if you're interested. (At ST Lukes there are midwives that will help you through, really good ones).Remember that in most cases labor pain is of a level that we are equipped to withstand (the movies are highly exaggerated --but they need the drama, I guess!) And it's well worth it to spare both yourself and the baby the 'hangover' from drugs. Of course, there are exceptional cases where circumstances make the birth very painful, and in such cases, hurray for medication. But there's nothing wrong with assuming that yours will be normal.

Let me know if you need more info, support, etc.
Good luck!
G.

I always thought I would be an epidural girl but when I got pregnant with my first. However, after doing research on epidurals, their effectiveness and their effect on the baby I decided to try natural. I would give birth everyday if I didn't have to take a baby home everyday. Recovery was so super fast and I had a natural high that lasted for weeks.

Giving birth is like attacking a hard workout. You want to quit at times but you just refocus and you can do it. The first part of labor is a breeze anyway. I was folding laundry and washing dishes during the first part.

If you want to try natural I suggest getting a book on the Bradley method. Make sure your husband is behind you and knows the emotional sign posts of labor, in the Bradley book, and consider getting a doula. I never used one but have friends who swear by them. Also ask your dr. How many woman who want natural get a natural birth. Lots of docs and hospital will agree to natural but in reality will try like heck to push an epi on you. When you are in that last stage of labor being asked if you want meds every five minutes wears you down unless you have a killer coach or doula.

You can do it! Woman were created to give birth and have been doing it med free for hundreds of years!

Either way good luck! At the end if it all you will have an amazing baby!

T.,
Your strong enough to not use the epidural, just coach your self to handle it . My mother was the best coach ever, she would tell me " Do you want a little pain medication (epidural ) so your baby can get stuck and have an egg shaped head, Once you get the epidural you dont feel nothing and you want the baby to come out. But you are not in control any more. Then you will have a life time of pain in your back . OR (my mother says ) just tuff it out like for 15 minutes ( which was totally wishable) , enjoy the Deliver on remembering the feeling and that you have done so good and you will be proud of your self. When people ask you and when you talk about it. You can say " No Medication and No Epidural. I did it on my own.
So I did it with both of my girls, i have a 6year old and a 7 month old. All i did was tuff it out and keep my self confident that it will soon be all over. BUT IT IS ALL WORTH IT !!!! I love my Girls. !!!They are beautiful with nicely shaped round heads. LOL .

GOOD LUCK >>>>> A.
DONT GIVE IN . U CAN DO IT !!

Wow T., popular post!

First off: I think it's really important for women to know that epidurals use bipovocaine (a cocaine derivative) which does indeed affect maternal physiology and thus the baby, and also does cross the placenta (particularly after 6 hours, says the Mt. Sinai Medical Center study)... epidurals create a literal mind-body dissocation that is on par with extreme psychosis, in terms of how a psychotic would not be aware of various physical sensations. Do we really want to teach our children that transition and change requires drugs???

Some women write here of how their 'enjoyment' of their labor was provided by an epidural. Wow! How can being NUMB from the waist down, unable to walk and move if you need to, be enjoyable??? I think what's clear here in many posts is that many women are emotionally unprepared and psychologically & physically unsupported for real childbirth, and do experience enormous physical and psychological pain. In fact, the "fear-tension-pain-fear" cycle is a very real thing that must be understood before labor begins! It also is essential to NOT arrive at the hospital before having dilated well at home, because hospital procedures are very uncomfortable and contrary to the mobility and security that a laboring woman needs.

If we carry the 'dissociative childbirth' philosophy further back, we might see foundational dissociations going on in the way we handle menstruation, sexual fulfillment, and maturation in general.

Yes, epidurals can be humane in situations where a woman encounters dysfunctional labor, and has gone into labor with alot of unresolved fear, etc. Epidurals, when conservatively used, can make a totally positive difference for certain women. Also, epidurals are a typical consequence for most women whose relationships with their husbands/boyfriends has oppression, disconnection, or sexual dishonesty (unless they've cleared matters up or found an appropriate doula beforehand). But let's not underestimate the wisdom & empowerment that is possible via childbirth preparation, and women's self-care health in general!

When planning an epidural or analgesic delivery (which is one way to approach childbirth), it is essential to know that the baby feels each and every contraction, regardless of if the mother is or not, and if you are going to numb your physical experience, the baby still very much needs to have your full empathic presence, and as much movement and sound as you can muster. Our babies needs are the same as the needs of babies in the Stone Age: medicated chilbirth is a blip on the stage of history, and the mother-baby is a unit.... in fact nursing mothers and babies have the same REM patterns when asleep at the same time. Pre & Perinatal psychology is a huge new academic and philosophy realm, for more, check out www.birthpsychology.com

Women who are supported to follow their a desire to have an aware and drug-free birth (at home even, such as Erykah Badu, Cindy Crawford, and Lucy Lawless) rely on the physiological fact that our birth-coping hormones are actually our helpers! The endorphin levels of supported natural labor are actually individualized, body-made opiates, called endorphins that rise in each woman according to her specific labor pattern, unlike the total dissociation created by the epidural. Women who create this for themselves truly discover that THEY ROCK, and have alot more trust in themselves, and general intuition, through the incredible sacrifices and egobusting of early parenting and the tremendous challenges of sustaining a marriage in our society.

FYI, as a doula and midwife's assistant for some 20 years, I've known women who switch to a freestanding waterbirth center plan late in pregnancy... because once you realize that you can have the pain relief of an epidural without the mind-body dissociation, it's very appealing. At least do a tour at AABC... those deep jacuzzis are a true ally for the birthing woman, particularly when dealing with first-time jitters.

By how you convey your question, I'd like to point out that the fact that you even admit you have fear is a really big step towards accessing some deeper power as you envision your birth... you're much better off than those that completely deny that childbirth will probably be their biggest psychological challenge. That said, doing the work of working on fears beforehand and being able to stay IN your body and adapt well to labor takes alot of commitment, but this new soul, this major story in your life as a woman, and your marriage, deserves it!

It's important to value the psychological aspect, because that is the NUMBER ONE birth preparation realm that natural birth women cite as important... It's a fact that in a healthy woman, childbirth is actually an expression of optimal health: it is not a disease. It is not like having an infected tooth that needs to be pulled. It involves our emotional heart, our internal pelvic floor, external genitals, and a powerful force of energy that is a milestone in women's development, and our sexuality in general.

Giving birth, on your own two feet and in sync with your baby, or being delivered like a damsel in distress: it's up to us what we make of our capacity as women.

You can explore informed choice for birth, doula supporot for home and hospital, and you can ask your baby "How would you like to be born?" and you can ask yourself "How can my marriage be enriched or destabilized through this event?"

Have you considered the benefits of having your husband catch your baby (common in midwife-attended births, often with the care providers hands underneath) and the benefits of you and your new little one having total skin-to-skin immediate reunion and totally syncopated bonding? There are lots of reasons to figure out what your deepest dreams for this child and this birth are, and to get into the habit of moving through fears and discovering who you really are. There are some great prenatal yoga & meditation classes in town where a woman can have time and space to tune in to the wisdom of her body and her baby... and some OBs who are very empowering of women's wisdom, and the value of having a doula (Dr. Karen Swenson and Dr. Mike Love and Dr. Monk in Austin for example).

Helpful websites http://www.waterbirth.org/mc/page.do and www.lotusfertility.com

Enjoy these last months of pregnancy!!!

Epidural is the way to go you will still be able to feel some if they don't give you to much. You don't see the needle, so I wouldn't stress over that. The shots they offer during labor don't do hardly anything but make you loopy, don't recommend those. If you have an easy labor the other experiences might work for you.

Good Luck and wish health to everyone.

Here's my perspective: I was in labor for 44 hours (extremely abnormal-- this will not happen to you) but I decided to have no pain meds. To be clear about this, 20 hours of that was transition and it was the hardest thing I've ever done. YOUR LABOR WILL BE SHORTER. I'm not saying this to scare you, only to let you know that it can all be coped with.

Everyone in the world will make you feel like it can't be done, but you know what? You were made to be able to do this. It is hard, but it isn't really even something you have to do. Your body and your baby do it for you. All you have to do is continue to breathe. I was exhausted by the end of it, but I pushed for 2 hours and I have a healthy baby boy who is about to turn one year old. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
I didn't walk for a few days after that :)

There is a TON of evidence that, contrary to popular belief, epidural anesthesia does cross the placenta and the effects can sometimes be seen in baby's behavior even after two months. There is a great book which examines all the statistical evidence regarding birthing procedures and their safety called "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth" by Henci Goer. I find the title of the book very condescending, but the content is fantastic.

Now, I'm not preaching. Do what is best for you. I'm just writing to say don't let doubt in your abilitiy to birth this baby make your decision for you. You are strong. You are a mom. You can do anything.

Good luck and happy birthing.

OH, I took a great birthing class which helped me prepare emotinally and physically for the experience. (And I had some baggage. My first birth was induced and it ended in c-section.) The class is called "BIRTHING FROM WITHIN" and it was taught by San Antonio midwife/ Doula/ Birthing From Within mentor Alisa Voss. She was incredible and I highly reccommend her class.

I just had my daughter about 5 months ago and i had the epidual. I know how u feel about being scared of needles b/c i hate getting my blood taken so i thought this was going to be horrible, but once u get there its not that bad. Its the same size as a normal needle and u dont even see it. when he places the needle in u, u hardly feel it. but unforunate for me i ended up having to have a c-section b/c she got suck on my pelvis bone(which i didnt know could happen). just try not to stress too much and make sure u get enough sleep in the weeks to come cuz u won't get to sleep much after she gets here.lol. good luck

Hi T.,

I had my little guy almost 10 months ago, and I would say learn all you can about the different types of meds available. Also, give yourself permission to do what you need to do.

Take childbirth classes! They're usually very inexpensive at the hospital, and now's the right time for you to take one. Read about deilvery ("what to expect while you're expecting" is a good book). Women have been doing this for thousands of years, before there were hospitals! You are not alone!

Surround yourself with people who care in the delivery room if you want to. Have your husband with you if you think he'll be supportive/helpful (mine was, and he was very moved by it, and brought a new level of respect to the relationship). My mom-in-law was also there, which was really nice. I asked my sister, but she wasn't able to come in time.

My childbirth class covered what meds they used where I delivered (Tarzana, CA). I wanted to go as natural as possible; I wanted to experience the birth, pain and all, and participate in it as much as possible. I REALLY didn't want an epidural, as I was scared of that needle, and have heard many stories of people for whom it was uncomfortable, unhelpful, etc. But if the pain was going to get in my way, causing me to tense up too much, then I decided I would go for it.

I ended up having Stadol, an I-V medication that lasts about 1.5 hours - took the edge off the contractions as I dialated. No epidural, and yeah, it hurt, but it wasn't horrible. 7 on a scale of 1-10. It's different for everyone, but don't be afraid. My labor was 9 hours altogether, which is very good for a 1st baby.

Take care and best of luck!

everyone has to do what is right for them, and the good news is that you can change your mind. i went without pain meds for both of my kids. yes is hurt in a way, god willing, i will never hurt again... but then the pain is over. if you get an epidural, you risk having it not injected in the right spot, and then having to re-do it (i have heard of this from many friends and family members- my sister had an epidural injected wrong then wrong, then wrong again, and now she has scar tissue built up in her spinal column... chronic back pain, yikes!) about the no drug thing, you are right about being concerned whether you can handle it physically and mentally. it is a HUGE challenge. but you can do it. what i recommend is that you love your doctor to pieces. i'm serious, if you have even a tiny doubt, find another one. it is a very intimate experience, and you need to trust and be on the same page with your doc. talk with other moms about their birth experiences, and think about a birth plan that you like, and then have another advocate with you (i just had my hubby, wasn't into the doula thing, and couldn't afford it anyway). then, when you do give birth, you won't be fighting drug interference when you are trying to bond with your baby (i have heard epis give mammoth headaches, etc..) it is so exciting, and scary, but you are MOMMA!!!!

Hi T.!

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

I had my first son with an epidural (I didn't really want one because, like you, I was afraid of the needle; but I wasn't prepared to do it naturally), then my second and third babies in a hospital with a midwife and no medication, and finally my fourth at home with a midwife.

IF I ever have another baby I will definitely do it at home again. It was just so much less stressful and I was actually allowed to sleep at night (rather than getting my blood pressure and etc. checked all through the night)!

Taking Bradley classes was the life saver for me! I know it is a bit late for you to take them since they are a twelve week series, but if you look for a local teacher, I think they could offer some help and advice. I know my teacher was very friendly and helpful any time I had to call with a question.

I would never get an epidural again for so many reasons. The biggest reason (aside from safety concerns) is that the recovery was SO so much faster for me. Fortunately, I didn't have any complications with my first baby due to the epidural, but unmedicated was still a much better experience for me.

Hope this is coherent enough! Best wishes to you!!

On your first child you don't really know until you are in delivery. With my first child my mind was made up to go completely natural all the way because I had low blood pressure, and I was afraid the epideral would drop it. I was enduced and lasted about 4 hours without medication and eventually gave in. The thing is to be open minded about it, and not make a sure decision. You don't know what your body will feel like and how you will take the pain. It's your first time. It's okay to take medication if you need it. The recovery from the epideral is not bad, or at least what I experienced. I had a hard time after delivery that I gave in had an epideral just because I wanted to go natural. Don't beat yourself up over which ever way you choose to go. The second child is easier because you have and idea. You've done it before. Go with what you feel comfortable and don't be afraid to change your mind.

Well, with my first child I was brave and did not get any pain medication. Eight years later, with my second I tried to be brave but it seemed that my pain with her was worse, so I had an epidural and it was great! I wish I had agreed to getting it earlier in the labor process with her. After getting the epidural I felt nothing and that's the way it should be. I don't recall having any pain from the epidural so I would recommend it if you can't endure the contractions. You may be like me the first time around and don't get anything.

There are many kinds of pain relief during labor and the kind you decide on is a very personal decision. There is much debate among women what the right kind of pain relief should be during labor.
If you are afraid of needles, this website: http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/houston/EHUp... offers some basic alternative methods of pain relief that require no needles, but some of them require a little bit of practice (breathing & relaxation), and some of the methods may not be supported at the hospital you deliver at (if you decided that you want to deliver at a hospital). Then there are different techniques to performing breathing & relaxation such as Lamaze and the Bradley techniques. These are techniques that you will need to practice several times with a labor coach (person you want in the delivery room) with before labor begins.
When it comes to pain medications, the ones offered to you at a hospital will require an IV. I took IV pain meds with my 1st baby. I found that they provided little comfort and an hour later I was requesting an epidural. The other thing that bothered me about them was that they really just made me really sleepy (could not keep my eyes open to even answer simple questions) and made me feel drunk. They also affected the baby: she did not move for hours but by the time she was born she was no longer being affected by them. Which bring up another point about IV medications... After a certain point in your labor, you will not be allowed to have any IV medications because it sedates the baby, and may make it difficult to get the baby to breath after born. That means that you are doing the most painful part of labor with out medications and you should practice one of the above techniques anyways.
Then there are those epidurals. They can, but may not always, offer complete pain relief. They also have no real effect on the baby because most of the medication stays in the fluid in the spinal column and not in the blood stream. Unfortunately, they require an IV as well as a catheter being inserted into your back. I have had two epidurals and can honestly say that the pain from those needles is NOTHING compared to the pain of labor. The affects of the epidural also did not affect my pushing. I delivered my first after 20 minutes of pushing (difficult positioning of the baby) and my second was delivered in one push! The negatives of epidurals are the need of a needle to insert them and inability to move legs during labor and for a few hours after delivery. Another thing to remember is that epidurals can cause your blood pressure to drop initially, but the nurse is there to monitor you and will provide you with IV fluids if that were to happen.
I decided on what kind of pain relief based my limits of pain. If you are very deciplined and can tollerate pain well, or know how to meditate well, maybe the non-medication route is best for you.
With my first baby, I decided to try to go med free for as long as possible, then try IV pain medications, and as a last resort use the epidural. Two hours after my water broke, I was desperate for pain relief. With my second, I went stright for the epidural...
What ever you decide to do to manage your pain during labor is very personal. And remember: no one will ever know what you used for pain management, unless you tell them.
Well, I wish you luck in your decision.

Let me give you a word of advice woman to woman.
I've had a natural delivery, one with Demerol only, and 3 more with epidurals. Why 3 with epidurals? Because they are a blessing handed down from GOD! I told my Ob I wanted an epidural before I even went into labor. I wanted that anesthesiologis waiting on me to arrive. The quick stick in the back is NOTHING compared to the contractions or natural birth delivery. Good for you for whoever went the natural root, why is a great question. I've heard that water birth's help relieve some of the pressure of contractions, and they offered it at the last hospital I delivered no.5 in and the idea of feeling dirty in a tub of water while trying to get through childbirth, not to mention how gross I'd feel after did not appeal to me. My natural delivery wasn't supposed to be natural but I got there too late. And, I'll tell you I was in so much pain I kept pushing when I wasn't ready and caused too much stress on my son, so they had to take him and remove fluid from his lungs right when he was born(not to mention I tore myself in 3 places), so I would say the epidural. It's a quick procedure. Not painless, but nothing compared to without, and you get to then watch t.v. and converse with visitors, or even nap until you are ready to push and then you push and deliver. The demerol helped get the edge off, but I still felt pain, and even a little woosey(drunk?)The epidural did not drug me at all, nor did it my babies,it was a hands down method in my opinion!

epidural!! i tried a home birth--for 13 hours-then we went to the hospital and that epidural was the biggest relief i felt, until the baby came 13 more hours later...i recommend the epidural for the first baby...it was way too much for 26 hours long labor without meds...good luck...it was remarkably easy in hindsight--don't be scared./..

Hi T.,
Congrats on your baby! I had a baby in August and I did not have any pain meds. The reason I choose to have none is because it was best for the baby. My baby was 9 lbs 4 ounces. I wasn't able to have him naturally and ended up having to have a c-section but I was in labor for 11 hours and pushed for 3 hours. I did this all without pain meds. I won't say it wasn't uncomfortable because it was at times but I just kept breathing. Also, every contraction you have is one more closer to not having anymore! I just kept thinking that this is getting me closer to the end. Since I did not get to fully push my baby all the way out I am not sure how that feels. I did have a friend that delivered naturally without pain meds also and she did great! I think if that is what you want to go with just set your mind to it and you can do it! It wasn't as painful as I thought it would be.
Hope this helps! Whatever you decide to do though is great as long as you and the baby are healthy!

Have you thought about getting pain meds before the epidural? That way you are less stressed/tense/aware of the needle?

You never see it if you don't want to. I understand the fear of needles, but if you're also concerned about pain management it wouldn't hurt to consider the epidural.

Discuss it with your physician. You've trusted his/her advice so far. That's the person to rely on.

I see that you have 162 responses already so i will keep thias short. Epidurals are great as long as they dont give it to you too soon. When i had my oldest nine years ago they gave me the meds when i was only dialted to a 3. Big mistake! My labor ended up stopping altogether. It ended in an emergency c-section. But all three of my kids were with epidurals. And it is great. But if you are overweight as i am it might take the anastesiologist a bit longer to get it done. I had poke mark and bruises all up and down my spine. But in the end i would totally go epidural every time. If not, its gonna hurt-period! With epidurals all you really feel is the pressure. After it is all over you forget all about the pain you went through. It sounds weird but it is true! Congratulations on your upcomming miracle of life!!

Take childbirth preparation classes and dicuss all options with your doctor and have an open mind when you go into labor.Trust your doctor's advice. Labor is very different for every woman so what worked for me may not for you. You don't want to go all set for one option and then have your labor go diffently than expected and feel like a failure. The only think that matters is to have a healthy baby and a healthy mama at the end.

with my first, i was young and uneducated about delivery. so i choose to have both demerol and an epidural. i actually slept thru part of labor. LOL the delivery part wasn't that bad either. feeling no pain was nice. the second time around, 6 years later, i toughed it out till the pain got too bad and then took demerol. it was just enough to get me over the last hump and deliver. could i have gone all the way natural? maybe, but i made the best choice for me at each birth. feeling pain wasn't fun, but it was a great thing for me to experience as well. i also bounced back from the second birth alot quicker than the first. i was home in 24, not 48, hours and running errands in 48 hours without getting tired. my choice if i ever had to do it over again: the second type!

Hi T.,

Disclaimer: This will sound crazy and I'm sure other moms out there will respond as such, however, it IS NOT crazy and is extremely plausible and reasonable. Let me also say that I was not a full believer until I actually experienced labor and birth this way for myself.

I used Hypnobirthing with both of my deliveries. I have two daughters, 3 years and 6 mos. The Hypnobirthing method approaches birth as a natural process, one for which your body was specifically designed to perform. The method uses deep relaxation techniques to aid you in turning the process over to your body and trusting that your body knows what its doing. As such, there is no pain involved. Pain is used by the body to let you know when something is wrong - there is nothing wrong with your body when giving birth, women are made for it. In turn, with no pain there is no need for medication. I found Hypnobirthing to be extremely empowering and energizing. I felt great after my deliveries and my recoveries were extremely rapid. I was in labor around 24 hours with my first daughter and 30 with my second. Hypnobirthing allowed me to remain calm and relaxed throughout the entirety of both. Family and friends who saw me immediately after birth could not believe how great I looked and acted, even the skeptics! Also, both of my daughters nursed immediately after birth and had no trouble latching on and in the subsequent hours and days after birth I had no issues with the "sleepy baby syndrome." I STRONGLY recommend this method. I also recommend hiring a doula (birth coach/advocate) - my husband and I can not say enough about having a doula present for your labor and delivery. Please feel free to send me a personal message if you would like more information about Hypnobirthing and doulas. You can also check out the website, www.hypnobirthing.com. On the website you can search for instructors in your area, if you live in the Dallas area I can recommend a fabulous one. It's a little more expensive than the traditional classes offered by hospitals; however you have to think of the savings you will receive from not having anesthesia and the physical and mental benefits to you and your child.

congrats! Just had my first on January 14th. I hate and am terrified of needles, however, I asked for the epidural (they couldn't administer it fast enough!) and I'm very thankful for it. I went into everything (Pregnancy thru labor) with the mindset of I'll learn about it on a need to know basis - didn't read up on anything, didn't ask too many detailed questions, didn't want to know what was coming or going to happen, and that may have made things easier for me. I didn't even know what the effects of the epidural were going to be - your bottom half goes numb but you still feel your legs, just no pain, it's very weird feeling but cool at the same time. Hope this helps

My first child - All natural! Not even as much as tylenol!

My second child - Demerol because I was induced and they say that it hurts worse but Demerol actually worked backwards on me and intensified the pain. Once that wore off I did the rest all natural.

My third child - I didn't make it to term but I still gave birth to her naturally. After she was born I had to have an emergency dnc for the placenta and they gave me a spinal block for that (very similar to the epidural). I will NEVER let them stick anything in my back again. My lower back was sore for months! It was horrible!

My fourth child - I am currently 32 weeks and plan on doing it all natural again. It's really not that bad if you have a good labor coach. I'm not sure if it is related to the spinal I had with my previous pregnancy or not but with this one I am having horrible lower back pain. I never had with any of my others but they say every pregnancy is different??

Good luck with whatever route you choose. Congrats!!

I don't know that I ever considered anything other than an epidural. I have friends who delivered without pain medication and other friends who had a planned c-section. I always knew that I would go as far as I could without pain medication, but that in the end, the point of this whole exercise was to have a healthy baby and a happy M.! So, I chose to take the epidural when they offered it. It was the best choice for me. And I agree with some of the other posts...by the time you get the epidural, that will be the last needle you're worried about! You'll be stuck so many times before you'll become immune. Good luck and have fun as you begin the most fabulous journey of your life!

read Birthing from within. Once you feel comfortable giving birth you will feel comfortable making those decisions. Women have been giving birth for thousands of years, think of it as your rite of passage. :) You shouldn't go in to labor concentrating on what kind of pain med to use. Allot of women don't need any. If you have a doctor that insists on pain meds go see another. Just because you give birth in a hospital doesn't make it a medical procedure.

Call your delivery hospital and sign up for one of their free Baby Preparedness courses. They last around 4 weeks and area really great. They go over all of the medications and what to expect during delivery. Educating yourself really helps take away the fear of delivery.

I had a baby a baby almost a year ago and had an epidural, they numb your back before they put the epidural in so you feel nothing, it's no big deal. Also don't be so scared delivery really wasn't as dramatic and painful as people claim it to be, at least mine wasn't and I had no medications until I was 9 cm dilated. Congratulations and good luck!

It's an individual thing choosing what pain medication to use and each have their own benefits and side effects for both the mother and the baby. ALL pain medications have potential serious side effects, but those side effects rarely occur. Webmd has a great table that lists the common pain medications, their routes of administration, potential side effects, and other considerations. Generally speaking many pain medications are given with a needle. There are some narcotics that are given through an IV but epidurals, local anesthetics, and others are usually given through an injection. Some pain medications can only be given during certain times during labor. If you are too far dilated it may not be an option to get an epidural. In an epidural the needle is inserted into the epidural space of your spine, so you won't see the needle because you're on your side or sitting up with your back to the anesthesiologist. I have seen them done and the women who have gotten them love them, but it's not for all women. I would definitely look up the pros and cons online before you make a decision. Hope that helps, good luck and congrats on becoming parents!!

Hi T. congratulations on your baby soon to be born. If you don't like needles well I have news for you. Your Doctor will order an iv. They need to keep your body hydrated. Getting the epidural is really not bad. I have T. children which were born thru c/section. I had edpidural on both and it was great! Don't be afraid just be ready to enjoy your new bundle of joy.

Good luck,
Elisa

I have three children. I can let you know what I did. First of all I stayed as active as possible during my pregnancy so that I was in the best shape that I could be in for the delivery.(at the end I was just making sure that I would walk every day). The first I went totally natural. (breathing and relaxing was the key for me to handle what I was going through). The second child I was induced with having my water broken and Pitocin a synthetic oxytocin I still did not use any medication for pain. The third child I delivered three weeks early and was induced, my doctor wanted to do a C-section so an epidural was started, well my daughter did not want to wait for the Doctor to set up for the C-section so the nurse ended up delivering her. If I was going to go thru labor again I would go naturally again. Just stay as active as possible during pregnancy and just walking should work. Take a good birthing class with your husband or birth coach. You will need someone to help and stay calm with you. And try to stay as relaxed as passable. I felt much better after labor with the two natural births than I did when I had the epidural. But remember you can always use drugs at any time during your labor there is a time limit on the epidural if you are too far along they will not start one ask the doctor about that. But as far as any medications in the IV they can give that to you at any time during labor which should help relax you and make it easier to endure labor. It is entirely up to you what you end up doing. Good luck. It is a wonderful experience.

I understand what you're going through. I'd heard all the stories (good and bad) about using an epidural. I SALUTE ALL YOU MOMS OUT THERE WHO DIDN'T USE ONE. I am a complete wuss. I knew I wanted and needed an epidural from the get-go. I am scared to death of needles, too, but I just had my 2nd epidural in October. The anesthesiologist numbs the area before the needle is inserted, and then inserts the needle. Once it's in, you don't feel it. The only thing is, is there is pressure on the area where the needle needs to go, and you have to be VERY still. But I promise it'll help while you're delivering. Now, I do have to tell you that I had 2 c-sections, and have not delivered vaginally, but it helped with my pain, and I have heard that it helps a lot with vaginal deliveries. Thanks.

You've had lots of advice, and I may even be repeating some of it as I don't have the opportunity to read it all
Two books to read: 1) Birthing From Within and 2) Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth
You can get both books from Amazon.com w/shipping for <$20
Look at Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth, not just Lamaze.
Realize that women have been having babies for thousands upon thousands of years -- you can do this. You can get through it without pain meds. Yes, it will hurt - that's part of it. But think about all the women thru all the eras of history that had no pain meds. Your body is made for this. You do not need to be 'delivered' of your baby, nor your baby from you. You are birthing your baby! When in a hospital, you have the advantage of docs/midwives nearby in case something happens, but your body can do this! Statistically, most women that want to labor med-free but end up with an epidural ask for it during Transition. At that point you're almost done!
Also I would recommend watching "The Business of Being Born". You can get it through NetFlix now and from Blockbuster soon.
Keep your baby's best interest at heart and know that you'll do the best you can - whatever your decision.

hth
K. Hotz, mama to
Catherine Anne, 4yrs and
Samuel Anthony, 1yr -- both born med-free

Hi T.,

I am afraid of needles too, but I didn't kid myself when it came to knowing that I would need the epidural. You will be guided on what you need by your body when that time comes. I would sign all the appropriate paperwork and so forth with your doctor. Even if you don't use it, at least you will have the option. I know this is vague, but you are the only person who will know what is best for you.

Best Wishes,

M.

I have had a baby with an epidural and without and my experience without was definately much better. I was calmer, the baby was calmer and the delivery was MUCH less traumatic for both of us. But if you are going that route you have to be prepared both through reading, classes and have good support, like a doula. You could also interview a midwife about the differences in a hospital birth with an OB and a birth center or home birth with a midwife. My last baby was born at home - 9#, 6oz, no drugs and it was the most serene, beautiful experience of my life. You don't have to be superwoman, you just have to have the right support and know what to do. Women have been doing it for millenia!

It's all really going to depend on your body's response to labor, so relax, and don't think about it too much. It will happen whether you want to go through it or not (baby cannot stay in forever - smile!). My vote is for epidural so that you can enjoy the entire process without being in insane pain.

If you are still worried, then talk to your doctor about the different types and the pros and cons. I know some options leave your baby drowsy upon delivery. If you also have your hospital selected, speak to the doctor(s) who do the epidurals and other pain management options. I have three children - two delivered with an epidural and one naturally. I would pick epidural any day. In fact, with my last child the epidural helped me relax enough to deliver more quickly and making yourself and your body relax is KEY to delivering. If you can, try to take a birthing class that teaches you some methods for relaxing...it helps with the coping during the first two phases of labor. Good luck and no matter what, it will all be worth it in the end when you see your little angel's face for the first time.

I hate needles,too. I have come close to passing out on several times when having blood work or IV's put in.

BUT trust me if you want the epidural when the time come you won't care what they stick you with as long as it brings some relief from the pain. You won't see the needle (they make sure you don't). I just held out until I couldn't stand it anymore (I made it until I was dilated to a 6) and then got the epidural. I did the same with of my kids.

COngrats!

Compared to the pain of contractions, you wont care about the needle. You wont feel it when they give you the epidural, and it is the greatest pain relief ever. After you can actually enjoy your labor. I did recieve some stadol before my epidural and it made me feel loopy, like I felt pain but didn't care. Try not to worry so much, the pain doesn't hit you all of the sudden, like in the movies, it comes gradually. With me it was, I think I feel a lil' funny, hurts a lil', hey I think I am in labor, doen't hurt enough to go to the hospital yet, (few hours) ok lets go, then it was I need drugs now! So you'll have time to decide based on how you are feeling at the moment. Good luck!

You won't see the needle since they administer the meds into your back. You'll be grateful that you did it. They also spray some numbing stuff before inserting the needle. My daughter just turned 18 and if I'd ever had another baby, I would have taken the epidural again. Good luck.

T.,
I know all the books, and maybe even your doctor, are telling you to plan out every detail of your labor and delivery. It's good to research the different pain control methods, and what kinds of things can happen during a delivery (pitosin, episiotomy, etc). But in the end, you really can't plan what's going to happen. Nature will take its course, and if it's too much pain for you, believe me, you will do whatever it takes to make that pain go away (as with my first child); however, you may have an easy labor and delivery with no need for pain meds (as with my second child). Only at that very moment will you know what you will choose, and it's okay to change your mind. No one knows what you are going through except you. Hope this helps. Best of luck!

USE THE EPIDURAL!!! Dont worry about the needle, you will be in a position where it will be more of a relief then pain. I did an intervenious drug and would not choose to do that again, just strictly the epidural. Compared to the pain of labor I say with out a doubt do the epidural!!!

When I had my daughter last April I got an epidural. I am terrified of needles so that part was pretty rough, but I am so glad I did it! I felt no pain at all from the time the epiduarl was in until long after my baby was born, however I had enough feeling to know exactly when to push. I won't lie, getting the epidural is scary, but it was so worth it! I was able to enjoy the birthing experience so much more (in fact my husband and I played video games and ate popsicles most of the 14 hours I was in labor)!

Congratulations!! All the best in whatever you decide. I can't tell you what to use, but I can share my story with you....
I have(had) a phobia of epidurals, therefore, it was never an option when I was going to have my first baby. I wasn't into "natural" childbirth, but just no epidural. After about 24 hours of labor (with 2 doses of fentanyl only) the talk of a c-section started, of course with that came the epidural talk. I ended up getting the epidural b/c I was worried I would have to be put out in an emergency c-section if I didn't have it already. The epidural was wonderful and I was able to deliver my baby boy a few hours later. My reason for sharing this with you is that I was a big believer in knowing what you wanted ahead of time, but in the end, the best result was going with the situation and making a decisions as needed. I know this isn't for everyone and it wasn't for me in the beginning. My advice, is to just see how your body reacts and go from there. Good Luck and All the Best...

Don't rule out natural childbirth. I'm hoping you and your husband (the parents-to-be!) are signed up for some classes at the hospital where you'll be delivering. We took a childbirth class (Lamaze) and I decided to try a natural childbirth. We did it! No epidural; no episiotomy; no drugs! I was alert the whole time and that was great. There are many natural ways to help facilitate childbirth, including different positions; sitting on a birthing ball; water therapy; visualization; massage; etc. Whatever you do, make sure you educate yourself on your options and don't let anyone scare you. Your body was made to do this and with or without pain meds, you CAN do it! Blessings to you!

I actually had both of my children at home, which obviously means no pain medications. I too have a fear of needles, i also am uncomfortable with a hospital setting. All of my friends had their babies in a hospital, they also all had epidurals. Everyone I ever asked said that it still hurt so bad that they couldn't even tell if it worked at all. I have also heard of the effect from epidurals making it difficult for the baby to turn duing delivery, which in turn can result in a more painful delivery & possibly even the need for a cesarian. In my opinion, the pain is something that we as women are meant to handle. I'm not going to lie, it really hurts, but it is a unique pain, and I think that the experience only makes you stronger as a woman. That all being said, if you are scared of needles, nix the epidural. Needles are evasive anyways, and will only make your experience that much more uncomfortable. I hope my advice can help. Good luck!

I had a natural birth with my daughter who is now 13 months old and I can tell you that the pain was not bad at all. I was in labor for about 9 1/2 hours and all the contractions were very manageable. My husband and I took Bradley birthing classes to prepare for our baby's birth. I've had chronic back pain for about 7 years so I definitely didn't need a needle in my back that could make it worse. And there is also alot of evidence that indicates that any pain meds taken during labor do affect the baby. You'll have to do what is best for you. However, please remember that a woman's body was created for giving birth and bringing a baby into this world cannot be compared to having root canal.

Take natural childbirth classes, which will help you learn to cooperate with labor instead of fighting it. The kind of pain medication you decide to use (or not to use) depends entirely on how your body reacts. Trust your obstetrician here.
Don't worry about the needles. With an epidural you'll never see the needle and it you're concentrating on cooperating with your labor you'll never feel it.

I had an emergency spinal with my first and I guarantee I was so busy with everything else that I never even felt it. These guys are good.

Cathy

I was terrified of getting the epidural because of the needle. But when you are hurting from the contractions, you dont even notice the epidural being done!! And with our 3rd, I wasnt having contractions when I got it and I still didnt even notice it! I hope that helps!!

Epidural, epidural, epidural. God bless the epidural! I hate needles as well, but my son was 9 pounds... I didnt feel anything but pressure. It was the most magical moment of my life when he was born, and I was able to be present in that moment. If not for the epidural, I fear I would have been thinking of the pain rather than the precious moment that passed by too quickly. And the epidural itself... no big deal. Didn't hurt at all. Best of luck!!

I had my first little one five yrs ago, and like you needles freak me out. I went ahead and had an epidural and it was not bad at all!!! I never saw the needle and it was not very painful. The epidural helped cope with a long, intensive labor. I would reccomend an getting one to anyone. With an epidural, my labor was very enjoyable and I was pain free the whole time!! I am having another little one in May and will definitley be getting another epidural!!!

Ok-not to scare you but if there is any chance of you having a c-section then ask the doctor to give you a spinal. The reason I say this is because they induced me with my first and I got the epidural. It was unknown if I was going to deliver vaginally because she was so big and I also had pre-eclampsia. I ended up having an emergecny c-section and they only used an epidural or whatever. Apparently I needed a spinal but they didn't have time...They got about half way in and I started to feel MAJOR pain!!! I started screaming it hurt so bad and by the time they reached the sack and pulled my daughter I didn't feel any medication-I felt like I could feel EVERYTHING. They ended up knocking me out completely to be able to finish everything. Like I said-don't want to scare you and this is a VERY RARE thing to happen but that's what I suggest. I had my 2nd by planned c-section and they gave me the spinal and everything was fine. Felt kinda weird but no pain like before!

Hi T.,

I recommend hiring a doula to help with pain management. Their role is to support the mother through her labor--not deliver the baby. Studies show that using a doula helps women have the type of birth they want and cuts down on unnecessary interventions--like c-section. I used a midwife, at home, and felt that my contractions were like really intense menstrual cramps, so more uncomfortable and intense than painful. The sensations were a little overwhelming (to say the least) and she helped me stay grounded and use my breath and sounds (I was loud) to get through the contractions. The most painful part for me was pushing because it stung, and by that point it's too late for an epidural. Anyway, there are some great doulas and they will work with you before you have the baby to get to know you and understand what you are looking for out of your experience and then help you achieve that. They'll know about the different types of pain meds and when in labor you should take them, too.

Hey, T.! Don't worry, you will do great! When i had my first daughter, i was trying to be all "tuff" lol and i was! I didn't have an epidural because i was so "hell bent" (sorry) on having my baby w/o an epidural...well, i had a demeral (sp) button!! Lol lol i got to push the button every time i was in pain...lol it was fine...i also have a high tolerance for pain though...lol so it's totally up to you...only you know your mind and body...w/my second daughter i was trying real hard to be "tuff" again...but i had been told that being induced my contractions would hurt worse...well, that totally happened to me...i was in pain very, very bad!!! So at the last chance i had, i took them up on giving me an epidural. After that...it was easy sailin'! Anyway, that's my experiences...two girls later...no more babies. Ha! Good luck! Have a great day!
Peace~A.

Hi, T.! My attitude going into labor with my son was that I would go as far I could without pain medication, but it was always an option. I did end up with an epidural about 3 hours before he was born and it was WONDERFUL! There are other options, though, medication-wise. The nurse can always give you Nubain, Stadol, etc. through your IV line, which you'll probably already have in any way. Good luck and I hope you have a good labor and delivery!

Lamaze classes are really good to take because they train you to breathe through the contractions instead of holding your breath and fighting them. I did not have an epidural with my two girls, however I did end up with something through the IV. I wanted to do "all natural" child birth, but gave myself permission to use something if I got to the point where I needed it.

During the labor of my second daughter, I used soothing music that I had relaxed and meditated to while pregnant. I also used (smelled it from a cottonball) Geranium essential oil when I went into transitional labor along with meds through the IV.

The bottom line is that every labor is different and you just need to trust your instincts and do what is the best for you.

Good Luck! :-)

IV narcotics have more of an effect on the baby than the epidural will (though it too can make the baby less alert after delivery). The epidural will initially go in through a needle. However, they will numb the area of your back with a small injection before the larger needle ever touches you. Once the needle is in, it comes out momentarily and leaves a tiny hair-like catheter in your back. This catheter delivers the medication to the epidural space. If you are in labor and having a hard time dealing with the contractions you will not have a problem being still for the epidural. Trust me. Once you realize that you will get relief when the anesthesiologist is done, you'll not move an inch! I use to work in the L&D unit at a S.A. hospital and I've seen women screaming and such...yet, once the epidural process started not one of them moved or had a problem with the needle. I wasn't crazy about a needle going that close to my spinal column either. But...once I was in labor and wasn't progressing very well, even though contractions were at 2 to 3 minutes (without being induced) and I was stuck at a 6 cm, I changed my mind. My labor coach told me I might be able to relax once I had an epidural and my body could do it's business. She was right!!! My labor went much faster. The key was to keep moving around in bed. No laying down the whole time. She had me rolling over to each side or sitting up every twenty minutes or so. All this said... do not let anyone pressure you to get pain meds if you don't feel it is the right thing to do. In both my labors the nurses started pushing for the meds before I was ready. It really irritated me at the worst possible time. My husband finally told them to not mention it again, unless I asked. This is your labor and barring an emergency your preference reigns. You'll get through it.

I knew i was gonna use some type of meds because i cannot handle pain very well although having my son did not hurt as bad as i overanaylzed it to be...it did hurt don't get me wrong...i tried not to get the epidural until i was at a 6, but i got it at a 4...i was getting to tired overcoming the contractions that i wanted to see my baby being born ...that's why i got the epidural early...the way i see it if i don't see what they are doing behind my back (the epidural) i am all good...and believe me you you feel all better after...u will know when the time comes what you want...because like someone once told me "get an epidural if you want anymore children...hahaha.....GOD BLESS and hope all goes well

You will know! I personally would go with the epidural so that you can enjoy the most wonderful event that can happen to a woman. It is incredible. I know that I would not have enjoyed the three births of my children had I not taken the epidural. There is no one more scared of needles than I, but it was a breeze. Good Luck! And enjoy the experience.

It wasn't difficult. I had a spinal/saddle block with my first one (I'm HORRIBLE with pain!) and it was terrible! Have to stay flat on your back for 12 hours afterwards (to prevent spinal headaches). Epidurals came into vogue when I was pregnant with my 2nd. It was a BREEZE. I don't like needles much myself, but I hardly even noticed when it was inserted. It was fantastic! I was more awake for the birth & it was Awesome! good luck!

I had the epidural with both my kids and highly recommend it. You hardly feel anything, and it makes the whole experience much more enjoyable. The needle is in your back, so just close your eyes and don't watch. It is over in no time.

The needles are nothing compared to how much it hurts when that big ol baby come out down there. I have had 3 boys all by c- section and the epidurals were not as bad as I thought and I am a needle phobe as well.

After you have a baby you realise that needles are not that bad when you consider everything else that has happened to your body. plus they numb the spot where it goes in and if you keep your eyes closed you never see anything. Don't be surprised if you get the shakes after you have the baby that is common... Good luck- A. J

By all means have the epidural, i have 2 children and had the epidural twice. I really feel it helped me tremendously, if i had to do it all over again, which i am not going to i would diffently have the epidural, the needle is not bad, don't think about it, let the doctor do his job, its in you lower back so you don't have to see it. Out of sight, out of mind. Also, pray a lot, it helped me as well.

The plan will come to you when your time comes to deliver. You may be able to handle the pain then again you may not. When I had my baby I had mixed emotions it was a great thought to go natural however the pain was so great that I couldn't enjoy my experience so I got an epidural and it was the best thing I could have ever done in my life. I was able to relax i was not so sedated that I didnt know what was going on around me i was very alert and I remember everything about my birth I was even calm enough to handle video taping my birth I was talking and alert and I know without the epidural I nerver would have had an experience like that. But do what you feel comfortable with. Besides with the epidural you will never see the needle because your back will be turned. At that time you will know. Good luck.

Giving birth to your child is second to none for experiences in life. I delivered both my two children (8 & 9 yrs old now) at home with a midwife. We did not have health insurance at the time so, I decided to give the home birth a try. I am so glad I did! My labor with my first child was very intense, but from the time that I really knew I was in labor to birth was only 5 hours. He was born wide eyed and alert. I decided that I would deffinately do it again, and low and behold, 6 months later I was pregnant again. I used the same midwife with my daughter as with my son. My labor with her was about 10 hours and when I hit transition I wondered if I could handle it. But knowing that I did it with the first gave me the strength to continue on. Both of my births have been a huge blessing and memory I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Keep in mind that the pain you go through is a "good" pain and that you get something wonderful at the end. I saw that someone else said to check out the "Bradley Method", I strongly recomend it also. The relaxing techniques are terrific and I still use them today for all sorts of pain and when I need to relax.

I recomend a book called "The Birth Book", everything you need to know to have a safe and Satisifying birth, by William and Martha Sears.

In this difinitive guide to birthing, the authors of The Baby Book give expectant parents the information and practical advice they need to plan a safe and joyful birthing experience. They give up-to-the-minute answers about every aspect of birthing, including: Selecting the right birthing environment and team; lessoning the discomfort and speeding the process of labor; defining the father's role; choosing or avoiding anesthesia; decreasing the chances for a Cesarean birth and much more.

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?even...

http://www.amazon.com/Birth-Book-Everything-Satisfying-Pa...

Good luck and enjoy the birth process!

T.

Hi, I'm E. (42) from Germany.
I gave birth to two girls, 7 and almoust 5 years ago.
Every birth is different, every painfelling about us woman is diffrent. I can totaly understand you're afraid. I was the same.
I took this epidural at the first birth. I could not say, that I feel anything about the needle. You don't even see it.
Normaly they set this medical between the labor-pain (I hope it's the correct word, sorry for my english).
Anyway, it didn't help very much. It's just when you go tired between sometimes a long delivery, then you can relax better. They have to bring the medication down between the pressure when you are deliver your baby.
So I decided for nothing at the second birth, and what can I say, it was just the same pain.
Just let me say to you:
Don't go afraid to give birth to someone very special to you.
It's the way to go, and with all the pain between delivery you come closer to your baby.
I don't tell you it's an easy way, but it is an wonderful and really special way.
You will be amazed, wonderingly and surprised what your body can accomplish, when you 're giving brith.
Just trust your self and your body, and the people what will be around you with a lot of experience.
I wish you the best and a beautiful baby.
E.

Congratulations on your new life!

I was 39 when I had my first baby and had the ideal picture in my head that I could do it without any pain medicine...

well,that went out the window when my husband fainted just from seeing the IV and when my mother-in-law showed up and just stood there staring at me (I was dilated to 3 at that point).

The nurse told me that I was in a hospital and that I should take advantage of being pain free.

The needle did not hurt and the epidural made a HUGE difference!

Wishing you all the best!

L.

I was not sure what I was going to do until the actual day of labor. I was constantly weighing the pros and cons of iv drugs and epidurals. One thing I will say for sure is that I was given Stadol when I first got to the hospital and it ended up slowing my son's respiratory and heart rate. I will never have Stadol in my system again, it makes you feel very doped up but just takes the edge off, but you can still feel some pain. I ended up getting an epidural and after that felt nothing, which in some ways is good and other ways not good I could not tell when to push because I could not feel anything. I think you have to go on your gut feeling of what feels right for you. I too am terrified of needles, but i could not feel it when they did the epidural, i had a really good anesthesiologist. I hope you have a smooth labor and delivery.

If you are afraid of the needle...don't be...I never even saw it! I was in so much pain by the time I got mine the needle was not even on my mind...some go w/out, some go w/as many drugs as they can...it's up to you! It does not make anyone a better or worse Mommy for taking pain meds during delivery! I decided to have an epideral b/c I didn't see the point, since the technology is available, to be miserable for the birth of my child...I ended up having a c-section after 14 hours anyway! Do what is best for you! Don't let anyone on here freak you out about either using or not using any meds...Good Luck and Congrats!

I to am afraid of needles and I chose not to use any medication during delivery (natural child birth). I don't think the pain is all that bad... you deal with each contraction at a time... which makes it much easier. The big thing I think is getting enough rest. Delivery is exhausting and you need to be prepared for that, if you choose a natural child birth. Stress is an issue, if you can't stay calm it makes the delivery more difficult.

If you have not already speak with your OBGYN about the different medication options you have. She/he will be able to explain them all to you in advance so you can decide on the one that makes you feel the most comfortable.

Congratulations on your marriage. :)

If you are delivering vaginally, by the time you're ready to get the epidural, you will feel NO Pain what so ever!
I too was scared to death over the epidural but when I delivered vaginally and started contracting, the contractions cover up the pain of any needle and the needle is SO thin....
When I had a scheduled c-section with NO contractions, the epidural did hurt when the meds were going through my body but with a c-section you of course have no choice.
Good luck to you! I'm also having an April baby. : )

You have to go with your gut feeling and how you feel during labor. You can make the best thought out birth plan ever and never use it. I can only tell you what did and didn't work for me.With my first baby, I decided to go as long as I could without any pain meds and then get an epidural. I got IV sedation after my water was broken at about a "7", then I got an epidural. I had a really hard time handling the contractions after my water broke because they become so much more intense. I don't think I could have handled it without the epidural. Once the contractions are that strong-you really don't care what size needle it takes to take the pain away.
The IV sedation, Stadol, Wasn't my favorite though. I felt groggy and was afraid I wouldn't wake up for delivery.The next day, my back was so sore and I felt hung-over.
I will tell you that I am so glad I had pain relief on my first birth. However, with my 2nd and 3rd I had my kiddos natural and will never birth any other way again.I don't think I could have done natural childbirth without experiencing it once to know what I was up against to mentally prepare.
Good luck in your decisions. I'll be praying for a safe delivery!

I was deathly afraid of the epidural after hearing so many horror stories. Truthfully, the natural method wasn't as painful as I thought it would be. I'm very happy that I chose that method, and I joined the "gazillion" mothers from the past and present who have done the same. I feel good about that. The doctor can give you some medicine in your I.V. that will help with pain and anxiety. My advice is to pray for the Lord to give you a healthy baby with as little pain as possible. Good luck.

I felt exactly the same. In hindsight, my advice is not to worry so much. The nurses are really helpful and will explain all your options when the time comes. I was scared to death of the epidural needle but b/c of complications I ended up having to have one and it wasn't nearly as bad as I expected, it really was nothing. Only you can make the decision that is right for you when it comes to drugs so listen to the nurses and then decide what is best for you. Be calm, don't worry so much and rememeber there are no special prizes for how you deliver - the special prize is after delivery.

Congrats--

I'm certainly not an expert, but I know for myself I don't handle pain well. I planned on an epidural with my son from the beginning. I was also very nervous about the epidural at the same time. After seeing one done on someone else it really freaked me out. However during the labor process I was ready for anything that would help, and it was not bad at all! Getting my IV was worse than the epidural and the epidural worked almost immediately. My experience was wonderful, I had no pain after that and it was great being able to enjoy the rest of the labor and delivery process. My best advice is to do what you really want to do. Make a plan and let everyone know of your plan. When the time comes you can always change your mind...remember it is just a plan! Best of Luck--and congrats again!

I can relate to your nervousness, I felt the same with my first child. It wasnt until I educated myself on the whole birthing process that I became aware of all my body will endure and realize that women were meant to have babies and yes, we can do it well! I chose to have both my children naturally without medication. I believe many women are capable of doing it naturally but it takes educating yourself and being confident that you can do it. I chose to take the Bradley Method Birthing classes. It is an extensive study on every aspect of the birth which heavily includes your husband. It was eye opening to us and we felt so informed.

So, I recommend educating yourself and then you will feel more confident in making such hard decisions.

I have a friend, Erica Steele who teaches the Bradley Method and is about to start a new set of classes. If you are interested her website is: www.completechildbirth.wordpress.com/
She is also part of Mamasource. You can look her up here also.

~M.

Hi T. it's up to you sweety.It depends how long you can take the pain.Me I couldn't take it I prefer EPADURAL.I couldn't take it but after that medication you don't feel a thing. You are in lala land no pain just comfortable .I used it on all four of my births.Good luck God bless you and your baby.

Congrats on your marriage and your baby!! I totally understand being afraid of needles--but I would take an epidural any day over having an IV or getting by blood drawn. The needle seems really big--but it is going into a very fleshy part of your body and it is no big deal at all. I had nothing with my first one bc I had him in 45 minutes so there was no time. The second time I LOVED my epidural guy!! I am due in May (also with a girl) and I will HAPPILY let the edpidural guy poke me with a big needle! Good Luck!! :)

I am deeply afraid of needles also but the anxiety of the pain of delivery without medication overshadowed that. Ask them not to show you the needle. The attendant will numb the area before starting the epidural and it is done in a few minutes. I just closed my eyes and held on tight to the other nurse's hand since my husband had not arrived yet. The medication is available to make our deliveries easier why not take advantage of it. I definitely made it worse than it really was. Hope this helps. Good luck and congratulations!

I used the epidural 3 years ago and I love it. It's wonderful, no pain. For me without medication is very painful.

I know you've had a lot of advice already, but I too am terrified of needles. I have to lie down everytime my blood is drawn and still almost pass out, and I usually do worse with actual shots. However, during my deliveries, both my children were in distress and I was pretty much told I had to get an epidural because I was probably going to need a C-Section and if I wanted to be awake I had to have an epidural/spinal block. I was so freaked out, but it was the easiest thing in the world. With my first child I had an epidural and it really wasn't as bad as I had heard. I'm not going to say it was painless, but it wasn't really any worse than any other needle experience I've had, and I was so focused on breathing correctly it was over before I realized it. It really helped to, I was able to deliver my first child vaginally, but with my second I did have to have a C-Section and for that I got a Spinal Block. It was administered the same way the epidural was and was about the same pain wise. You can do it really, because no one could be more afraid of needles than me! There is so much going on when they give it to you that you really can't get to worked up and scared, and I really truely didn't think it was that painfull - especially compaired to the pain of the contractions I was having!!

K.

Oh my goodness!!! I completely understand the fear! I was terrified!! However, after going to birthing classes and finding out how the epidural was done, I made my choice to have the epidural. First, the anesthesiologist injects you with a local anesthesia. It felt like the prick from the needle when you get your blood taken (which I absolutely dread!) and I don't even think the pain lasted a complete second. Then, I couldn't tell you what he was doing because I didn't feel anything he was doing! The only thing I felt was a little pressure when she was coming out. No pain whatsoever! It was a complete and wonderful experience!!!! The delivery was actually enjoyable because I was able to experience the process without pain being the bulk of the experience. Good luck with your birth!

Dear T.,
It is really all going to depend on you. But let me ask have you taken the Lamase Classes. Cause the breathing and focusing are good to use during labor plus they go over ur options as far as pain meds to use during labor. Make sure to ask your doctor what suggestions they might have for you. I am a mother of 5 boys, so i am pretty much a pro by now. With my first i needed no pain meds, was in labor for just 1 1/2hrs. but from my 3rd on i did the pain meds only because i was in labor longer with them 2nd 36hrs 7lbs 2oz-3rd 24hrs 7lbs 12oz-4th 12hrs 8lbs 5oz-5th 6hrs 9lbs 14.2oz. I just had my 5th 3 1/2mths ago. There are different types of meds, you can even ask for one threw your IV which helps to take the edge off. As far as an epidural, you say you are scared of needles but you don't see what he/she is doing. And its not bad. I've had it done with 3 of my kids...but with the last two i was numb for maybe 15mins and felt the labor, but with my experience plus taking the lamase classes with my first i pretty much breathed and forcused through it all. So really it is all going to be up to you and how much pain you can tolorate. But what worked for me might not work for you so like i said ask your Doc about your options. Surround yourself with loved ones who will be there to help you get through it not annoy you. But my biggest suggestion for you is to DEFINATLY take the lamase class. Believe me it does help.

It's a very personal decision, and one that you'll get a wide variety of advice, ranging from "have the baby at home with no meds, then fix everyone pancakes after you're done", to "knock me out after the first contraction, then wake me up after the baby's born and my hair's fixed."

A lot of people are scared of needles. I never saw the needle. The anesthesiologist brings the tray in behind you, and you never see a thing. It took about 20-30 minutes for it to fully kick in, then it was sweet relief! I was able to rest some, which was golden since I didn't sleep much the night before. It wore off about 10 minutes after my OB finished sewing up my episiotomy. You have to have a catheter since you can't get up, which they remove as the epi wears off, and there's no pain involved at all. My daughter was quite healthy and was screaming to the high heavens, so alertness was a non-issue for us both. Oh, and my child never had an egg-shaped head, nor have I had any back problems from the epidural. My tailbone was sore for a good while because off all the pushing but that's it.
Educate yourself as much as you can about all the alternatives out there, talk to your OB about it, and even talk to nurses who work in the Labor and Delivery area at your delivery hospital. Just remember, the goal is a healthy, happy mom and baby, and there's more than one way to achieve that goal. Best wishes to you and your little one!

I used to be one of these people that constantly fainted when pricked by a needle, but when I had my little girl my motto was "the more the merrier"!!! I wanted ANY pain medication that they would throw my way (safely of course). As soon as a had my first really bad contraction I was begging for an epidural. It made the rest of the process so much more enjoyable and memorable. I honestly think that if it would have been painful I would have thrown in the towel and decided not to have any more. My cousin just had her first baby last week and I gave her the same advice... "don't be a hero" when it comes to motherhood, there's plenty of time for that later.

I decided not to use any pain medication. I was so afraid of needles. I remember when I was about 6 and had to get a shot. I was kicking and hiting the nurses and doctor. Anyway, when I was in labor, I was crying and screaming about the pain and begging for the epidural. They give you the needle during a contraction. You won't feel it! Just a little pressure. It was the greatest pain relief. I have had 3 epidurals. I am pregnant now and I am going to definitely get another.

There are other medications besides ones injected in your spine. I know they say it's safe but I personally know two women who were paralyzed from it and others who were induced because the epidural stopped their labor. The risks far outweigh the benefits in my opinion. And there are non-med options like Bradley or hiring a doulla. I have had really bad reactions with all four. I have c-sections so I just keep getting them but here's my experience:

#1 the anesthesiologist couldn't get it in properly. I was having seizures while he was doing it and he kept yelling at me to stop or he would paralyze me- I couldn't stop because he was hitting the nerves and causing my body to convulse! The baby's heart rate had been lost and they were wanting to get her out fast but he spent fourty minutes trying to do the epidural. I was in tremendous pain and couldn't even talk by the time he said he would have to put me under a general. My back was black from all the bruising and I cried myself to sleep for six months.

#2 Different hospital- It went in OK with only a little bit of pain and convulsing but he quickly adjusted his angle. I suffered terrible sciatica that night and again cried myself to sleep for 5 or 6 months.

#3 Same hospital, different DR- Not much pain going in, no convulsions,but I woke during the night (post c-section delivery they leave it in fr a day or so) paralyzed from the neck down. That was terrifying! They took the line out and within the hour I could move again, thankfully. But what if it had been permanent?

#4 same hospital, different DR (this is a top notch hospital and my OBGYN is wonderful and only delivers at that hospital The Women's Hospital of TX) It went in wonderfully and I had no paralysis but a week later I developed a 'spinal migraine.' They tell you that you could develop a headache that may last a few days but that's an understatement. I had the migraine for several months. What happens is that the fluid in your brain leaks out the hole they accidentally punctured in the 'dura' of your spinal chord. With no fluid around your brain, as you move around your brain bangs around in your skull. It hurts terribly and causes brain dammage- can cause blindness ect. I had this for months and had to hire someone to care for me and my family because I couldn't physically do it. I was in so much pain.

Oh, and I have pain at the epidural location so if there is any preassure on that spot it hurts like heck too.

Each time I go in I tell them my history and they are surprised but assure me the chances of anything happening are unlikely and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Four times they have been wrong. For some women they have wonderful results, but they have no way to predict who will have problems with it. One thing I know for sure- unless there is some major problem (like infection) there is no need to meddle with your spinal chord. That is just way too dangerous.

For my first child, I had an epidural because I panicked at the transition stage. That was the time of most intense pain, but it only lasts about 15 minutes. I had already dilated about 5 cm. by then. That slowed down the labor, and my daughter had to be delivered with forceps. I didn't like the way I felt the next few days, as it took a while for me to regain control of my lower body, so for the next child I was determined to do it naturally. By the luck of the draw, she came out quickly (I was in the hospital 45 minutes before I had her!). The other births were not as easy (I've had five children), but I did all the rest of them naturally. I think it's an empowering experience. I tell myself, "This too will pass." I was rewarded for my efforts without having the lingering side effects of the epidural. Trust in your inner wisdom, have a supportive partner (not necessarily your husband, who may be more fascinated with the whistles, bells and monitors than the birth process), and relax!

I wanted to go all natural on my first, but at 5 cm I asked for an epidural...great decision...on my second I got the epidural at 2 cm, because my doctor told the hospital I could have it whenever I wanted it. Some of the meds. they can give you can make you feel dizzy and/or sick, so be sure to look-up the meds you are considering online to see what reactions happen often...or just call the hospital, and a nurse should be happy to help you. Take Care! ~K.

Congratulations!!!

I recommend epidural. I was checking email and surfed on the net until 30 minutes prior to the pushing... f(^_^;
Well, this was my second child, also...
First one, I've asked for it, but it did not work. It was off... I felt the liquid coming in, but it just did not hit the right spot, I guess. I was in tears and it was natural birth, I would say... because with second one, I had a "real" epidural, and it really worked!!! Just like what my friends told me... It made the delivery a breeze... (^_^)

Good luck, T.!

Hey there T.. I just want you to know that what ever you choose is going to be great for you. For me it was natural childbirth. I delivered 5 weeks ago at the Birth and Womens center on Swiss Ave. with a Midwife. This was my first baby. Everyone told me how bad the pain was going to be and all of the terrible horror stories they had. My husband and I took Bradly childbirth classes and learned how to use breathing and relaxation to control the pain. I labored for 6 and a half hrs., only pushed for about 20 min (it could have been less but I was getting tired and needed a few min.). I delivered a beautiful baby girl. It was painful, of course, but not too bad at all. Completely doable. Keep in mind I was on bed rest for 16 weeks before going into labor, that is why I got tired so easily, I had no endurance. Once she was delivered ALL of the pain was gone, I even have trouble remembering the pain because the whole experience was so wonderful.
If you decide to go natural I strongly recommend taking Bradly classes so you are prepared and less likely to become overwhelmed by the pain. Also, squat...lots. Squating and moving around during labor not only made the pain MUCH less but it also helped the baby move down quickly.
What ever you decide set your mind to it and dont let anyone try to change your mind. Once you decide, stick with it and think positively. You will do wonderfully!!
This is the Bradly instructor we used, she does crash courses over a few days if you are too close to attend a whole 8 sessions. She is also a lactation consultant and doula.

Linda Worzer, BME, IBCLC, RLC, CD(DONA), AAHCC
DONA-Approved Doula Trainer , IJCE Columnist
DONA Certification Committee
Natural Beginnings . . .the informed parent's resource
www.naturalbeginningsonline.com
Serving Dallas Area Parents since 1977
###-###-####

Good luck and happy laboring!
A.

It was very important to me to have a natural childbirth. I took natural childbirth classes at Presby Plano, and they were wonderful at providing techniques and positions to use during labor, and also helped me understand what my body was doing each stage of labor, so I knew what to expect.

It was still extremely difficult, and I'll be honest and say that there were times during labor (esp. at the 7cm mark... a tough transition for most woman) that I wanted to give up. But my husband was so encouraging and supportive and was an advocate for me and helped me, even when I had a mean nurse who kept telling me to get an epidural. I got the urge to push at 7cm, but was told not to push, and so I had the additional dilemma of having to fight my body.

I finally decided to just get a 1/2 dose of pain med. I think they gave me nubain. I didn't have to decide which medication to use... just that I wanted a little something to take the edge off the contractions. It helped me relax and I was able to doze in between contractions and get over that hump.

Once I got to 10 cm, it was a breeze! I loved being able to finally push, and in no time I had my daughter in my arms!

From hearing the experience of friends... if you go into labor thinking that you can't do it and will need intervention.... then that's exactly what you are setting yourself up for. Woman have been giving birth for thousands of years without any interventions, and you can do this too! There are a lot of great books and resources out there! I'm in the process of reading several.... "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth", "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth" by Henci Goer, "The Lord of Birth" by J. A. Vanderlaan.

One thing you may consider is hiring a doula to help at the birth. I didn't have one at my first birth, and really regret it. I'm having one this time, and also am delivering with a midwife at a birthing center so that I can have a much more relaxed and intervention-free birth. The doula I am using is a student, so there is only a small fee. I know that she is going to be able to help me to change positions, couch my husband in ways to comfort me during labor, and encourage me through the tough parts of labor. Having someone at my side to help me through labor is going to be so helpful, as natural childbirth is so important to me. If you want more information, I can recommend several doulas.

There are also great resources on several different websites.

Here is one called Childbirth Connection: http://www.childbirthconnection.org/home.asp?Visitor=Woman

Here are articles by Henci Goer: http://www.hencigoer.com/articles/

Here is a great website with resources for DFW mamas: http://www.naturalbeginningsonline.com/

And here is a great site with more resources about birthing naturally. http://www.birthingnaturally.net/

Good luck, mama! You can do it!

I haven't read all the other responses, so forgive me if I'm repeating. I was also very freaked about the epidural needle, but knew I would always get the epi. In both of my labors, I asked for other pain medicine first, like Demerol or Nubain. That way, I felt kinda out of it a little when the epidural guy came in. It helped me not stress so much about the needle. I recommend that method very much! :)

Hi T. - I hate needles and the thought of an epidural really scared me, but when I was in labor with my first the pain got too intense (I was induced with both) I decided to go ahead with an epidural - For me, by that time I was already in pain and so the whole procedure for getting the epidural wasn't that bad and I was very pleased after it was done and so with my second I got it even earlier so that I could relax and rest more - The epidural wasn't that bad for me - They give you a shot first to numb you (which burns a little), but after that you really don't feel anything - In fact, they have improved the whole procedure since I had my first and the only thing that bothered me was the initial numbing shot
Good luck! And just make sure that your nurse knows what you have decided and will stand behind your decision
Feel free to send me a message if you have any other questions

I understand how you feel. I was apprehensive about the epidural too and wanted to wait as long as possible. Just the idea of what was going to happen was a little scarry. But once I went into labor and really started to get uncomfortable the worries of the epidural faded. Once I got it, I felt so much better and could actually rest a little before I had to push the baby out. Overall, there really isn't too much pain getting it either. It relly is sort of like getting a regular shot (becasue they numb you first)and it goes by pretty fast. Another reason I decided on it was incase, God forbid, anything went wrong and I had to have an emergancy C-section or something. There was no time wasted on preparing me, pain wise, for the procedure. With my next child I am gong to get is as soon as possible and not have to deal with any pain if possible. I hope this helped.

I made a choice to use the Bradley Method, which teaches the birth mother and partner/coach to work with the body. Natural childbirth may not be for you, however even if you decide to use drugs you may want to investigate the Bradley Method as it really helps prepare for the experience.

The epidural is the best choice, even if you are afraid of needles. You won't be able to see it, and the pain of insertion is a fraction of the pain from contractions. The only narcotic you will get is stadol or fentanyl. Not alot of choice there. Both make you feel loopy but don't take away the intense pain, just help you relax a little. Hope that helps.

Hi T.!

With my first child I was induced. I am also deathly afraid of needles but let me tell you when my back started to REALLY hurt thanks to what I later found out was back labor, I demanded an epidural. The technician understood my fear and kept me numb with every little movement. I never felt it..thankfully.

My second child was natural but not by my choice. I had a cardiac report on my file and they would not give it to me because they could not find it...it was 3 am when my little girl decided to move out LOL. I honestly can't tell you what it felt like because our bodies forget that pain almost immediately after giving birth. All I know is I survived and all of my worries were not realized.

Women have been giving birth for years and the end result is such a joy!

Praying for a healthy and easy delivery for you.
J. S.
Maypearl, TX

Congratulations on becoming a mom! I too am terrified of needles so I understand where you are coming from. I had hoped to make it through without an epidural - partly because of the needle but mostly because I didn't want to be numb from the waist down. I ended up getting one because the doctor recommended it since I had to have pitocin and it would have been even more painful labor if I had pitocin without the epidural. Personally, I'm so glad I got the epidural.

The labor experience was so much better after I had the shot - I was able to relax and take in every moment of what was going on. Prior to that, all I could focus on was how long before the next contraction and how painful it was going to be. What surprised me the most is that I didn't even feel the shot because I was having contractions while they were giving it to me. Then they gave me a button to press that allowed me to determine how often I was dispensed the medicine (after the initial dosage). Since I didn't want to be very numb, I only pressed it once and that was enough to keep me from being in huge pain but I was still able to move my legs and feel a little pressure when it was time to push.

The decision to get an epidural is personal and something everyone has to decide for themselves so I'm not trying to persuade you either way. In the meantime, I wouldn't stress about it right now and just enjoy the rest of your pregnancy as much as possible. It is the last time you'll have that precious baby all to yourself!! Best wishes!

Don't be afraid I got the epidural and it wasn't so bad just stay still and if you have a good doctor then you shouldn't have anything to worry about this was my first one too and everything worked out so well. During my whole pregnancy i walked and just tried to stay in shape and eat healthy i had my first at the woodlands memorial

Your best bet is to talk to your Dr. see what is available to you and what would work best with you. Everyone is different and deals with such complications differently but really it is best to ask your dr. see what she says...

Excided First time G-ma
(MOM)

I am also very afraid of needles so I chose to go natural with all 3 of my births my last birth was twins and I had to do both since one did not want to come out and the other one was ready. Having experienced both I would still go for the natural cause it goes so much faster and to me the pushing senation helps so much to get the baby out of there whereas when you have the epidural the Dr. tells you when to push cause you can't feel it and like I said it slows down your contractions so you will be in labor much longer. Grin it and bear it it's all so worth it!

When you are in the middle of labor, the last thing in your mind will be the tiny needle that they use to administer the epidural;) Besides, you will also have to get an IV when you are admitted to the hospital, so unless you are going to be at home, a needle is inevitable. But having had epidurals with all three of my babies, I totally recomend them (even though the last one didn't work!). This is how it works. You start labor and get it going pretty well,so the epi won't slow it down so much. When you are ready, the doctor will come in and have you sit up and lean over the nurse. The doctor will clean a spot on your back and use some topical numbing stuff. After that you will feel a little sting and pressure, but compared to labor pains, it is no biggie. Next you will feel a cold sensation going down your spine. I got shivers with my epidurals, which is not unusual.After that, you will start to get numb from your waist down to your toes. It will last for a couple of hours. With my second, labor took 14 hours, so they had to readminister the medicine after 10 or so hours (he was induced, it was awful, try to avoid being induced!) but with the other 2, it was all super fast. Hope this has helped.Good luck!

Hi T.,

Congratulations! What an exciting time for you! I too am expecting--our baby is due in March. I, like you, HATE needles, however, once I got pregnant, I sort of have to get over it--with all the blood tests and such! I finally had to just not think about what they were doing to me and just look away! This is my fourth pregnancy, and honestly, I did an epidural on every one. You know how tiny the blood test needles are? Well, they give you numbing medicine in your back (with a needle that feels as tiny as blood test needles) so that you don't feel the epidural needle, and honestly you don't feel the epidural needle. The numbing medicine feels like a bee sting, and then when they give you the epidural, you just feel pressure. What's great is that it's in your back, so you can't see anything they are doing!

All my children were and still are fine with epidurals. I didn't notice any non-responsiveness or anything with any of my kids. In fact, my daughter received an Apgar score of 9 and then 10--I was in labor with her for 12 hours. Just remember, don't let anyone talk you into anything you do or do not want to do. If you want pain medication, go for it, if you don't want it, don't take it--whether you get pain medication or not, in the end you will have a baby. You don't get a special medal around your neck for sticking it out and not getting any pain medication. Your 'medal' either way is your precious baby!

Hope this helps! Good luck and congrats again!

I'm also really not a fan of needles, and was pretty intimidated by the epidural, but in the end it was not nearly as bad as I thought. I didn't want any narcotic pain meds so I wouldn't feel drugged (nor would the baby!). I was of course good and nervous when they did the whole epidural procedure, but then again I was kind of nervous about the whole child birth thing! Anesthesiologists are not known for their bedside manner, and mine proved the sterotype, but I was expecting that. I would have loved to have been more mobile during labor, but in the end I felt no pain and was able to sleep some before pushing. Just had to deal with one leg being completely numb! (And remember it takes differently for every mom.) If your hospital has an anesthesia lecture, I highly recommend that you go so you know what to expect. Good luck!

I had an epidural with all 3 of my kids, and I deeply regret it. With the last one they gave me something, but I dont remember what it was called (not demerol) before I had the epi and I wish I had just kept it that way. I have had so many back problems as a result of my epis. I know I could have made it drug free if I was more determined, and I am a major sissy when it comes to pain.

I have had 5 kids. With my first I waited until i got to the hospital and was in severe pain befor ei got the epidural. It barely had time to take effect. The second time I went on and got the epi early even thought I avoid needles like the plague. it didn't take effect and I felt the birth. So afte tthat I just go as long as I can and when i am in real need of meds I get stadol in my IV. Usually I deliver within minutes.
On the flip side I have unusually short labors so it is worth it to hold out and be unmedicated for about 10-15 minutes. If I were you I'd look into Bradley method and hold out as long as you can. You might surprise yourself!
Best of luck!

T.,
Your fear of needles will greatly diminish during this pregnancy. You will have a lot of lab work that will require you to give blood as well as the IV you will be given when you are in the hospital. There are no extra trophies for the woman who gives birth naturally. I had two children, 1 naturally and my son with an epiduaral. If I could do it all over again, I would call for the epidural at the first sign of those painful contractions. You will enjoy the miraculous birth of your daughter so much more when you are relaxed than when you are in such high levels of pain. From one mom to another... Get the Epidural!

Good Luck to you!
V. Dotson
Business Owner & Mother of Two (Hannah 11 & Aaron 4)
Fairfield, Texas

Congratulations, T.!
My experience was that you just don't know until you're there. Do your best to educate yourself ahead of time and make a list of what you're willing to do. If you feel strongly against medication, I would recommend using a Doula who can help you with positioning and attitude during delivery. I used one and had no meds and a 7 1/2 hour labor that was very quiet and loving (it still hurt, but it was manageable with help). There is lots of info out there. Maybe you can make a birthing plan and then know that you'll have to be flexible in the moment if something comes up. http://www.birthplan.com/ is a great site.
Let me know if I can help further!
K.

First, some unsolicited advice... It is great to have a plan, but BE FLEXIBLE! These nurses do this every day and they are full of fantastic Info. Lots of moms think it has to go EXACTLY as they want or it won't be a great experience. I say, be ready for ANYTHING and open to suggestions.
Second... I am the worlds biggest needle chicken. Can't even look at one on TV or a magazine. They freak me out. So I was scared of birth. hahaha I was induced about 7pm and labor really started getting good around 11pm. They gave me STADOL to take the edge off... well, I don't do good with narcotics and it KNOCKED ME OUT. I woke up 7cm dialated, mid-contraction. Never felt anything like that before. So make sure if they "give you something to take the edge off" they give you VERY little to start, so you can be aware. ALSO - the epidural did not hurt at all. I tell you, YOU ARE IN LABOR and that needle is the FARTHEST thing from your mind. I have some spinal damage and they had to re-do it at 10CM fully dialated, because my son's head was stuck (he was headed out my hip... big headed kiddo... lol) and I think everyone but me knew I was having a c-section. hahaha ANyway...
That was my experience.
GOOD LUCK!

First of all, congrats!!

I have had all four of my children with a midwife and without medication. Scared to death at the thought that i would not be able to do it(and also scared to death of needles), but believed that it was best for myself and my babies. That does not make me braver than someone who chooses to have a medicated birth. It is up to you and you have to search and discover for yourself what is best. It is great that you have asked for peoples opinions, but i would advise you to do the research in advance and educate yourself on all the options that are out there. There are some really great books out there to get you started. My favorites and ones that helped me the most included: "The thinking womans guide to a better birth" by Henci Goer; a book by Ina May Gaskins, I think it is called "Guide to childbirth".

There is also the Bradley Method. They are a series of childbirth classes that prepare you and your partner for childbirth by teaching natural pain management skills, natural abdominal breathing. "partner coaching" techniques, and other information to lessen the likelyhood of unnecessary intervention.

these are just a few resources to research the natural approach to childbirth. Good luck!

congrats on your marriage and your little one on the way. as far as the epidural, you can't go wrong. if it's only the needle that is worrying you, you don't see it. i never saw it, i think most anesthesiologists know women have a problem with the big needle and try their best to shield you from it. plus you can always tell them you don't want to see it.

good luck

I am a former OB/GYN Labor & Delivery Rm. nurse. I work with a lot of couples in preparing for labor and delivery. Recently I worked with a young woman who was so afraid of needles that at the words "this will be a little stick" she would pass out lying down. I worked with her & her husband to learn a slow breathing/relaxation technique and a change of words. Those same techniques work throughout labor as well. In her case, she overcame the fear, did amazingly well getting an epidural and is now expecting their 2nd baby and ready to go!

I want to encourage you that you do need to learn how to focus during a contraction with slow breathing and mentally working at letting everything in you body relax. Even if you decide to have an epidural there is a period of time you will not be able to have one until you reach aprox. 4 cm dilatitation, so you do need to practice relaxing and breathing wether you have an epidural or not. The hospital you deliver at should have classes - BOTH of you need to go and begin working on what you learn on a regular basis until THE DAY! God bless you as together you bring into this world a new life.

Go for the epidural so that you can enjoy the birth of your child. I was 17 when I had my first and very unknowledgeable about having a baby. I was scared of getting an epidural, however gave in when I was dialated to an 8. I was very releived however b/c her heart rate slowed d/t umbilical cord being wrapped and physician had to use forceps. I had 3rd degree lacerations and had to have alot of stitches (from forcep use), so I was very thankful that I received the epidural. I am now an RN and have been for 7 years, I have since had 2 more children and received the epidural for them as well. My thought is that you never know and your physician never knows what will exactly happen during the delivery. That is why there is a team there to handle any problems that may occur. The epidural allows you to be alert to what is going on in the delivery room, where as w/injectable medications you have the risk of the medication crossing through the placenta and affecting the baby. As for the all natural method, it may be too painful and cause your blood pressure to become elevated, not to mention that it is very exhausting on the body. Because I work in healthcare, I choose not to experience pain if I know that it is preventable. Talk with your physician to choose the best option for you. Good Luck!!!!!!!

Congrats! I see that you already got many responses to your request but I think the most important info someone can give you is to see what happens. You can plan and plan but that baby is going to come when and where it wants to. Have an idea of what u want but also keep in mind that plans change and it might not go exactly the way you want. See how you feel and what you want at the time. Just be open and flexible.

Would you go get a root canal without any meds? That's the same question I asked myself when I had my son. I got an epidural. Yes, I was freaked out, too, but it honestly was the last thing on my mind when it was happening.

From what my husband says, he heard me crying & pleading a lot during that time, then he could tell when I had the epidural because I was quiet & relaxed.

Hi T.,
I was nervous as you are when I was expecting my first. I was advised to read "Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way," and am I glad I did. It not only gave me the confidence to know I would understand what I was feeling, but my husband and I did take the Bradley classes after I read this book. Although my husband thought he should have received a diploma after the classes were over, he even is grateful for the knowledge. My labor (active) was eight hours, I am sure I was in early stages through the day at work, but the real thing happened after my water broke. It was amazing to labor on my own and experience labor. Sounds crazy but I still treasure those moments. I did great and even though I ended in a c-section, I labored and pushed for over two hours without any meds and I would do it again. Whether you decided one method or not, I think the book I read helped me gain confidence that it was an option and even if I did opt for an epidural, I was relaxed and did not panic...my labor went (mostly) as the book described. The pictures in the book were what I had in my mind through each stage so I knew I was okay. It also helped, because when I got to the point of something unexpected occurring...I was aware it was not normal and able to make a decision to do the c-section verses not knowing and letting someone else decide.

I had an epidural with my son and it went just fine. With my daughter....if I had it to do all over again I would NOT get an epidural. I have had nothing but chronic back pain since. The anesthesiologist who was giveing me the epidural let his "understudy" give it to me and after the 4th try she said I can't do this, I think I am hitting bone. My husband had to get up and leave because I was in so much pain. Try to do it natural- it will be hard and painful- but I would have rather had my daughter natural and a few hours of pain instead of chronic back pain. Good luck in deciding whatever you do. It all depends on the anesthesiologist .

I didn't use any pain meds at all. My hubby and I went through Bradley training with the goal not to use any meds. I REALLY wanted an epidural during my labor, but was progressing to quickly to be able to have one.

The body really is an amazing thing. My brain turned off and my body just did what it had to do to get the baby out. Sure contractions hurt, but my body just tuned out the pain.

I wouldn't rule anything out before you go into labor. Wait and see how it's going and what your doctor recommends before you choose any meds. It's better for you and the baby!

i am so scared of needles!!!!! i got a epidural and it was not a big deal. it really didn't even hurt. they give you a shot to numb it first. the iv in my hand hurt worse. and i can not express to you what a chicken i am.........the epidural is the way to go! you will do great whatever you choose. good luck!

My pregnancy actually went by pretty fast that I really didnt have time to think. I knew I didnt want an epidural because I am more afraid of a big needle going in my back than anything. After I had my baby I swore I didnt want to go through that again, but now three years later we are trying for another one and would do it all over again. It is hard work but I think its worth the pain and not being druged up!

I had my baby at home and did not have any pain medication. I am studying to be a midwife and there are many, many risks to you and the baby if you get an epidural. The drugs do cross over to the baby. 1 in 3000 women have a serious side effect from an epidural such as paralysis, numbness, respiratory arrest etc. My advice to you is to take a great child birth education class such as Bradley or hypnobirthing and for the sake of your health and your babies health do not get any drugs. Millions of women for millions of years have been giving birth and you are strong and can give birth naturally.

Congratulations on your upcoming arrival.

Lisa

When I had my first daughter (9 1/2 years ago) - I wanted to experience the whole birthing experience naturally (well, as natural as you can be in a hospital). It was extremely painful and I thought I was going to die - my delivery and everything went fine - but it was sooooo painful. So then, when I got ready to have my second daughter 3 years later - I chose an epidural - I knew that I didn't want to experience the pain again. Even at the slightest discomfort from my contractions - i told them to up the dose. It was sooo much better. Good luck w/ whatever you choose to do. If I were to ever have another one - i'd have the epidural again!

My first baby came so quickly I didn't have time for medication.
I went in not wanting to use any medication for fear of slowing labor or other complications.
I just want to encourage you to do it natural if you can, your body was made to have a baby. You will be able to physically and mentally handle it if you believe you can and let go of the fear of the pain. The pain will pass and it will bring you a beautiful baby. I went to prenatal yoga classes and I learned some useful pain coping and endurance techniques, you still have some time to try that too. I'm expecting baby #2 in April too and I plan to do it without meds again. I wish you luck and want you to know whatever you decide it will be the right choice for you. Go in there knowing that you are powerful and strong and that you can do it no matter what!

I let it up to my doctor even though I don't like needles myself.But let me tell you,I did have a couple natural birth's and it hurt like heck,but the feeling after was the greatest feeling there was.It is up to you to know what way you want to go,but if your health is good,the baby's health is good I see no reason why you can't have a natural birth.You can have an alterative medication on stand by if you can't handle the natural birth.

When I had my first child nearly two years ago, I knew I wanted to go as natural as I could.
I had been hospitalized the year before for an unknown GI condition and that was unbearable. The two situations were completely different. I knew labor would be over - in a few hours or a few days. But the year before I didn't know what was wrong and was glad for the pain medication that knocked me out.
During labor I did ask for pain medication that would numb the largest effects. It helped me and labor was over before I knew it.
A piece of tid-bit information that no one ever shared with me...It was the biggest relief for my body to complete the baby delivery process and then the after labor process was even BETTER. I would have never felt this relief with an epidural.

Hello T.~
I am 39 going to be 40 this year. I have had two children the first was a c-section and the second was natural. I wanted to have both natural but it didn't go that way. I used an EP on the first and it wore off before my son was even born. (21hrs labor) If I could do it all over again. I would have asked for the strongest tylenol they could give me and leave it at that. I used no pain medicine with
the second except for tylenol the strongest they could give me. Honestly I had no idea what I was doing the first time around. I did not know that when they tell you to push you are supposed to push as you have to go to the bathroom. All that time I was pushing I was pushing with my stomach muscles. I don't know if that has anything to do with my delivery or not. The second birth went really well. And yes it is going to hurt but believe me after you have your baby you will not even remember the pain that you went through. I don't like pain anymore than you
but I believe that for some reason we need to go through some of that to some extent. You are stronger than you think. Remember God has trusted us to deiver such a precious gift of life.
T. I will keep you in my prayers. As for the EP, I wonder if that is not part of my back problems now. They
have to hit your spinal cord and that means they have to go through some nerves. It may be great for temporary, but with what long term problems will we have?

Best wishes to you and your family!

You will not feel the needle at all. They will give you the epidural while you are having a contraction so don't even worry about the injection! Use whatever makes you comfortable. It will be over before you know it. Enjoy your new baby.

First, I want to say that a decision to use, or not to use medication is totally up to you.
For my epidural, I never even saw the needle, and I can honestly say that it did not hurt much more than a shot. I was very nervous to get one, but sooooo glad I did. It was the best thing for me. The pain of labor is pretty intense, and once the epidural kicked in, I was good to go, I felt nothing, and it was great. And maybe by the time I could get an epidural, I was so ready for the pain to go away that I didn't care. Getting the IV in my hand hurt way more than the epidural.
You have to do what's right for you.

Oh girlfriend do the epidural. I have had 2 kids and the epidural was the greatest thing. I am deathly afraid of needles to the point i cant watch them on TV. There is no sense in a woman being in pain. Good luck.

Hey T.!! I hope all is well--I think the best thing to do is educate yourself about all the drugs, and the process of labor. That will help you to make your decision. I had an epidural with my first--I tried not to , but I was induced and it was awful(My fluids were leaking). I went about 7 hours at the hospital without drugs (not including at home) and I had only dialated to a two. With the induction I was unable to relax in order to dialate. I know this now, but had no control at the time. Anyway I went on to have my other two without anyting, and I loved the experiences. I read the book Husband coached child birth. I think also looking at it like it will be over soon is a good way, because you think of the finish line. I also used a massager on my lower back during contractions at the end, and I would have not done it without. I hope this helps--Good Luck

I was determined to go through labor without an epidural with my first child, mainly due to the fear of a needle in my back. Once labor became INTENSE, I did not care anymore about the needle, I just wanted relief. It was personally the best decision I could have made. I was able to enjoy the experience so much more because I wasn't in pain anymore. Since then, I have become a labor & delivery nurse, and the mother of 2 more children. Had epidurals with all of them. They were wonderful. As a L&D nurse, the medications that are used these days work very well for the pain, but still allows you to feel the urge to push and have some control over the delivery process. I highly recommend them. Also, the other option of IV drugs, cross the placenta and depress the baby. Epidurals do not.

I have had three children. I had an epidural with the first. The other two were born naturally with no medication. After having the second child naturally, I said I would do that again. I did, and had no problems. I was in labor the longest with the last one. Yes, it is painful, but in the end it is all worth it.

T.,
I did natural with a little demeral (sp?) to take the edge off. I remember asking for an epidural at the very end but it was already over. Then, I was awake and alert to greet my boys. Hope you find what you need.

When I had my daughter, I was induced, so there really was no question that I would be getting an epidural since the Pitocin can cause some nasty contractions. I am a pretty big whimp and can't stand to look at needles either, but I don't remember feeling much of the epidural when they put it in. I actually wasn't having contractions too bad at that point either, so I wouldn't worry about it. Believe it or not, the IV was worse (not to scare you any further, but you don't have a choice about that, so just look the other way and it will be over quickly). I never considered using the IV drugs because I know that they can affect the baby and I figured they would really get to me since I tend to feel really weird on those kinds of drugs.

Now, I am having my second child in May and honestly, I would like to see how far I can get before I get an epidural this time. I know I won't make it through the delivery without one, but I almost feel like I missed out a little on the birthing experience with my first because I had the epidural so early that I only felt about 3 contractions and they were only as bad as a strong menstrual cramp. Call me weird, but this time, I want to at least give it a shot first and call in the epi when things get to be too much. Best of luck to you and just remember....it's so temporary and once you have that little one, most of the pain memories tend to fade a bit.

:-)

I had my baby 8 months ago vaginally. I knew from the beginning that I wanted an epidural--I wasnt going to pretend bravery. It was an excellent decision for me. I slept most of the way through the contractions, until the end anyway when they got stronger. Pushing was the greatest relief. My husband was more uncomfortable than me sitting in his chair. I would do it again the same way.

For me it was AFTER that was a bit painful.

I had my first completely natural -not exactly by choice ---but the second one 14 years later -had an epidural on standby and decided to go for it-----glad I did was out of the hospital in 24hrs (48 with #1) so much easier ..speak to your dr. -that way you can be prepared to go all natural, if you change your mind you've already discussed it and have a backup plan available ...good luck and congrats.........

Congrats on your new bundle of joy by the way!

With my first one my husband and I went to Lamaze classes and learned the whole breathing bit, etc. When the time came, I spent 17 hours doing Lamaze and I was becoming fatigued, so I requested an epidural. It worked like a charm and I was able to get some rest. You do not see the needle go in and there is minimal discomfort because they do numb the area. Every women has her opinions about labor and delivery, but for me the "natural" way was overrated. Trust me, if women of earlier generations had the choices we have they would of opted for a more comfortable way to deliver. Everyone has fears of delivery, especially the first one, but just think of all the millions of women who have come before you that have gone through this too and in much more primative conditions. You'll be just fine, and you'll have a beautiful baby to look forward to.

ePIDURAL IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO,,I WAS 34 AND GOT P G BY SURPRISE,I HAVE 2 OLDER BOYS BACK THEN I HAD A SPINAL,,,THE EPIDURAL WAS THE ONLY WAY FOR ME ....

hey only you can decide what is right. (unless of course there are complications, then your doc will decide.) i too am a needle-phobe, and i definitely wanted to try to go natural. (not because of any other reason-epidurals are perfectly safe.) but after 14 hours of laboring at home, i went to the hospital and was just too tired to do it med free. so i got the epidural. it was pretty scary, to be honest, but since you don't see it, and don't feel it, it was sooooo worth it. the pain went away and i was able to just focus on getting that elephant out of me! :)

whatever you decide, it will be the right choice! good luck with your delivery!

C.

Being pregnant can be a very scary time, but rest assured that you will be fine. Start convincing yourself that you will be getting poked. They will start in i.v. in your arm and give you fluids so you won't dehydrate, so the one in your back you won't even see or feel. Take deep breaths and put it all in God's hands! Congratulations and good luck.
G.

Natural childbirth is something every mother can do. If you are planning a hospital birth, a doula can be of great service to you in having a successful natural childbirth in the hospital. Without a doula, it can be difficult, as hospitals really push the pain medications. I suggest you do a little research. Ina Maye Gaskin has written a fabulous well researched book on the topic. It is called Ina Maye's Guide to Childbirth (2005). Our culture undermines a mother's belief in her ability to birth consciously and without medication. This is huge loss for mothers who experience greater success at vaginal delivery, breastfeeding and lower rates of postpartum depression when they birth naturally-not to mention a feeling of triumph and exhilaration! Best of luck to you for whatever choice you make.

The truth is you won't know what you will want or need until it happens. Educate yourself on the different options and then you can make the best decision for you when it happens. I decided I would try to do it without the epidural (mostly because the thought of a needle in my back freaked me out),--- and then take the epidural if I decided it was worth it.

My first child --- came too quickly to get the epidural. It was painful --- but we all survived and you can too. The next baby we scheduled an induction so I wouldn't have her in the car and so I could get an epidural. My labor was pretty strong by the time the anesthesiologist got there and I honestly can say I didn't even feel her back there. The sitting up hurt more than the needle. After it kicked in (about 10 seconds for me) I said "God bless the man who invented the epidural!" It was AMAZING!!! NO pain. No side effects. I highly recomend it.

i did no meds with both of my kids (2 1/2 yrs and 2 1/2 months old). i took the bradley method childbirth classes and my husband and i felt so prepared. i too hate the idea of a needle in my back. you have to just make up your mind about what you want. knowing what the drugs do to the baby helped me in my resolve as well as knowing what my body was doing in each stage of labor.
congrats on your pregnancy and good luck! if i can be of any help, please let me know.

I hate to even tell you this but I feel I should.I had my first in july.I had planned on the epidural from the beginning.i had one and about 10 seconds later my babies heart stopped.I was russhed in for a c section.Well the epidural had numbed the first layer so when they started I couldnt feel it but thenit hit.I felt everything and it was to late then to do anything.So I basically had a unmedicated csection.Now I dont want to scare you but I thought it might help your desicion.I had a healty pregnancy and the doc told me it was probably the csection that caused my babies heart to stop.After feeling the pain of the c section i was wishing I had do it all natural and maybe my babies heart wouldnt have stopped.I dont know just be carful.My baby is ok by the way he is perfectly healthy and now 6 months old.I hated to even say this because i know how scary pregnancy is without someone telling the bad stuff.I am sure this is very rare.Good luck with your decision.sorry if i scared you

Im a mom of 4 and also a Labor and delivery nurse. I had 2 of my children with IV pain medications and the last 2 children with epidurals. I enjoyed my labor with the epidurals and was awake and could talk with my family and friends. With the IV pain medications your pretty much asleep and then wake up with each contraction. The needle with the epidural is not left in your back, it stings when they first put it in then you start getting pain relief. Good luck on what ever you decide to do, ultamitely it's your decision.

go with the epidural! You don't ever even see the needle, or really even feel it very much. You're going to be so preoccupied with the labor pains that a slight little prick will be the least of your worries. For me it just seemed likes the whole experience became so wonderful after I had the epidural in place.

You probably have more responses than you want...I agree with Debbie R...keep an open mind and don't judge or be harsh on yourself...the process in which YOU have a healthy baby is the RIGHT WAY FOR YOU!!!
I've had it both ways; epidural with c-section the first & totally natural for the second (did'nt exactly plan on that, but it worked out beautifully!) The best thing I can say about delivery is that it isn't what you'd exactly planned, but absolutely pales in comparison to the adventure ahead! Good luck & be kind to yourself!

OK - you've had 100 opinions posted, but here's my two cents.
I had epidurals with all three children. You don't ever see the needle and you really don't know what they're doing at all. It feels a little wierd, but generally you are in the midst of labor and the only thought you'll have is, "please make it stop!" :) You'll also probably be having contractions at the same time and trying not to move, etc, etc. You won't have a chance to think about the needle.
I also wanted to encourage you not to get anything that will "take the edge off." I had something to that effect with my first. It hit me hard and I barely remember his birth. I would rather have not had any medication at all than to remember very little of him being born. An epidural does not effect you mentally, only physically.
After all that - I would have to say that although I never went without medication, I probably could have done it. My labors were fast so I wouldn't have had long to wait around long! As others told you, you won't know what you need until you are actually there, it is a very personal decision.
HTH - good luck!
L.

When I had my son I went through all of the Lamaze classes and truly thought I wanted to go without the epidural. It definitely did not work out as planned...I could never relax enough to dialate! Without the medication it is very painful unless you are blessed enough to be walking down the street and "viola" the baby arrives. You will not see the needle go in because of where it is located, and honestly you will not even know it is there. It is best to receive your epidural as soon as the doctor will allow it...that way you can ENJOY your delivery and not be like the old movies you see where the mother is screaming at everyone she sees every time a contraction hits. And beleive me, the contractions WILL hit.
My step-daughter had her first child yesterday. She was able to talk with us and be pain free from 6 am to 1:10 p.m.when the baby was born. She was in such good spirits after the baby was delivered and never had to go through the uneccesary grueling hours of feeling every contraction. For the sake of your new husband AND yourself - go with the epidural.

I also am terrified of needles, my contractions were so strong, even though I have a high pain tolerance, I knew I wanted that epidural, really and truly, I don't remember getting it. They give you a shot of lidocain to numb your back, (and they did mine during a contraction, which I have heard is common) and I felt a small little pop, and then a few seconds later... RELIEF! It made my delivery so wonderful since I wasn't constantly in pain.

I used an epidural with both of my deliveries, but going into my first one, I had decided to keep an open mind and see how I handled the contractions before asking for the epidural. I was very nervous about the epidural as well...I am not at all afraid of needles for blood tests and the like, but the thought of anything going into the space around my spinal cord is something all together different! All I know is by the time they determined I was in active labor and offered me the epidural, I was not nervous anymore. I decided to go with the epidural and not the IV meds because I have taken some form of the IV meds orally (Percodan, Vicodan, etc..) and I did not like the way they affected me (drowsy, spacy etc.). Even though the epidural contains very strong meds, you don't get the same side-effects (at least I did not); I felt completely lucid and with it the whole time. I also know my own pain threshhold, so I knew I was probably going to want meds. It's OK if you are undecided going into the hospital...it's not like they have to special order an epidural a few days before hand and if you don't get your order in, you won't get one!

the epidural, was really no big deal..honestly! It is well worth it!!!!

I went thru the same feelings as you when I had my first child. I now have 3, a 8, 5, and 3 year old. Everyone told me to get an epidural. My husband even begged me to. But I stuck to my guns and said no, even though I was scared to death. I don't know where I read it, but I read that if you are on an epidural and you take a long time to deliver after you have it ( and obviously you really don't know when your are going to have them after labor starts) that the meds could actually get into the baby's system and slow there breathing which in turn could cause alot of other problems. From that point on I just decided that I would not put my child's life in danger because I was scared. of course that didn't help me to not be scared. But also when you are in labor you really don't have time to be scared. In my opinion, I stay away from epi's. I had two with just the i.v. drip and I would do it all over again, the other (my lastone) by the time I got to the hospital I was already a 9 almost a 10 so I didn't have time to get meds or anything. Good luck and hope you decide against it. You feel free to email me if you ever need to talk about it.

I have 2 children and with the oldest mt son, I wanted to see how far I could go with no pain meds. When I got to the hospital I had the worst headache ever ( my BP was high) so the doctor talked me into taking to Demerol in my IV. I made it to 6 cm and I could not handle the pain any more and I asked for the epidural. I do not like needles, but when I was already in that much pain I did not even feel the needles for the epidural. When the epidural took effect I was so sleepy from the Demerol that I was able to cat nap.

A little about me:
I have been married for 10 months, I have 2 beautiful children, a son who will be 6 in Feb and a daughter 4, and pregnant with twins due in April