NEED YOUR HELP ASAP Epidural for Cesarean on 11-11-09 - Glastonbury,CT

It was just fine. It was no worse than getting the IV put in. The relief it provided was so worth it. Just try to relax, keep breathing while they do it, and remember, it will be over in a few minutes. It goes in in a snap, but you have to sit still. Also, I didn't look at anything to do with it: not the doctor, definitely not the needle, etc.

I honestly could barely feel it. I have heard others say that it feels like a bee sting. Good luck.

I had a planned c-section and a spinal. There was a tiny pinch when they gave me a shot to numb the area, and then I didn't feel the actual spinal shot go in. My body got warm from my toes up and after that I didn't feel anything. I had no residual side effects.

Good luck!

Hi. I am 25 now and I had a planned cesarean with both of my kids, a 5 year old girl and a 9 month old boy. I am TERRIFIED of needles. I sometimes have to take an Adavan before getting blood drawn because I panic. Yes, a spinal (which is what you will get for a planned cesarean, not an epidural) does hurt. It is a very long needle and what they make you do is sit (naked) on the operating table and lean over with your head towards your knees so you back is arched. This separates your vertebrae and then they give you a quick local (either on the skin or in a small shot) and then use the long syringe to get between your bones into your spinal cord (not the stuff surrounding it, like an epidural so it is a longer needle and hurts more) and inject the blocker (instead of threading a catheter like with an epidural). The thing that sucks the MOST is your first reaction when you get injected is to sit up or pull your back away from the needle, but they make you do the opposite, they tell you to push your back into the needle. I will admit, it DOES hurt, but it is over VERY fast and you are almost INSTANTLY numb. I thought I was going to have a panic attack going into there and I cried until I got into the O/R but it all goes SO fast it was over before I knew it. If you have a cesarean you are only allowed one person in with you (your husband, or whoever) instead of 3 or 4 people with a regular birth. That person can't be in the operating room when they give you the spinal (due to possible bacteria or germ contamination or something like that) but as soon as it is over (it takes about 3 minutes from the time you sit up for the shot to the time you lay down numb) he can come in with you and hold your hand, which makes a world of difference. Plus as soon as you lay down they put a mask on and pump you full happy gas and oxygen which relaxes you so good. It seems soooo scary and it is a little but the rush of knowing your baby is about to come out makes it easier to deal with at the moment. Right now that seems a little tacky and cliche, but you will understand when it happens. I was even nervous going in the second time, but the second time around it was a lot easier. I wasn't worried about almost anything else except getting the anxiety of getting a spinal that day. I won't lie and say it doesn't hurt but but again it is over so fast you won't even remember it when the whole deal is over. I hope that helps at all knowing a lot of people are in your shoes. If you have any more questions about the procedure, like how long it takes, what happens after, just ask. I did it twice and it was almost exactly the same both times. I wish I had someone to talk to about it beforehand so if it helps, just ask. Good luck and congrats!! -L.

I was in so much pain that I honestly can't remember them putting the needle in. If I could do it all over again, I would decline an epidural. My son is two and I suffer from extreme pain in the site where I had my epidural. If I bend over too long, I have to stand erect very sloooowwwwlllyy or else I will fall to the ground from the pain. I never had this pain before the epidural so I'm inclined to believe it came from that...either that or I'm a cow who needs to go to the gym. *_*

Good luck.

I had an epidural for my son and ended up having a c-section. I didn't find it bad, but heck I was in pain already. I just remeber being itchy when it wore off, but not groggy or anything like that. I do have back issues but I think they are result of my pregnancy and a little extra weight.
My sister in law had an epidural with the first c-section because it was unplanned. Then she had a spinal for the second. She said she felt better after the epidural because of the spinal headache.

Good Luck Enjoy your little one!!

J. I am the same as you when it comes to needles...I freak out! when I have my routine blood work done I always ask that I recline in case I pass out!

I was planning on an all natural childbirth...for the health of my baby and because I couldn't imagine getting an epidural. Things didn't go as planned and after 34 hours of labor I had to go for a c-section. I was first administred the epidural, but I could still 'feel' below the waist, so they decided to give me the spinal too to make sure I was completly numb for the surgery.

I was freaking when they first told me of the epidural, but honestly it wasn't bad...a bit of a sting and that was it, just the same as anyother shot I've gotten (a tetnus is way worse). As for the spinal, samething, no problem.

I will say the spinal was really really strange to experience; within seconds of the shot all the sudden I couldn't feel anything from the nipples down...bizarre! I could feel the dr's tugging and pulling to get the baby out but no pain!

I have had no issues what so ever from the epidural or spinal; if the doctors think this is the best for you and your baby then listen to them and go for it. Just relax as much as you can...stress isn't good for your baby.

Not sure if you're planning on breast feeding, but that was a concern for me once I learned I had to have the c, I was worried my baby wouldn't take to the breast after waiting for me to recover, but an hour after my c my husband handed her to me and she took right to my breast no problem!

Good luck and Congrats on your new bundle!

the anticipation is worse than anything you will actually feel. I had the epidural via the spine and I don't remember it hurting, i just remember being anxious about it. remember this - you will need to be out for the c-section in order to deliver your healthy baby. and the person who gives it to you is highly qualified and does this every day. since you won't be able to see the needle, that should help. and, i think they can give you something before hand via IV to help you be less anxious about it - ask about that.
good luck.

I also had a planned c section. I'll be very honest with you. The most painful thing about my birth was when they put the iv in my arm. I suggest if you are afraid of needles that you look away when they put it in. and maybe ask for them to cover it with gause or something so you don't see it. As for the epi. It is not painless but not super painful. They sit you on the bed and bend you over so they can get at your spine. the insert a needle in it, which you will not see. I had this 5 yrs ago so I am trying to remember...I think they must move it around and ask you where you feel the pain so they know that they have the right place. Then they sit you down and wait a little bit so it can take effect. Now I don't want to scare you but I had to have two epi in my back because the first one only numbed half of my body. But after they did another everything went really well. You feel some pressure as they are working on you. I actually asked if they had started cutting and the doctor laughed and said they started five minutes before I had asked. After the surgery and recovery I couldn't feel my body from about midchest, where your diaphram is, to my toes. I think since I had 2 the effects lasted longer than usual. I had my daughter at 12:45pm and didn't feel my feet until about 9pm.
I have not had any complictions due to the epis with my back so I don't think you have to worry about that.
I know that you are scared and surgery is scary but just think of the beautiful little life that will begin after you have your c-section. I really wish you luck. Just keep the picture of your new baby in your mind as they prepare you for the c-section and know that you are doing this for them.
-A.

First off, I also HATE needles. HATE THEM. Second of all, I have scoliosis, so my spine is curved. That being said, I had a spinal for a C-Section. They put in novocaine first so that I couldn't feel the spinal, and the doctor missed and had to redo it. He gave me LOTS more novocaine so that didn't feel it at all and it was fine the second time.

Part of what made it ok was that the staff was awesome. I explained to them that I hate needles and that I was really nervous about it, so the nurse who was standing in front of me was great and chatted me through it so that I wouldn't focus too much on what was happening. I also ended up loving the anesthesiologist because he narrated my c-section for me so that I knew what they were doing and told me "That's going to be a really pretty, small scar"

GOOD LUCK! Focus on the baby and that may help!

I have had three c-sections. 2 epidurals and 1 spinal. each time was very, very scary. The first two times i didn't feel a thing except a drip of water going down my back (i think it was the iodine) I had a full doctor doing the epidural. The third time an intern did the spinal and they had to poke me about 6 times. It was horrible and scary and it gave me this really wierd awful dull pain in my lower back and legs

So.... just make sure it's a real full-fledged doctor who has done a million of these that does it and it will not hurt at all -- although i will still bet you it will be horribly scary.

I just read the next post -- They NEVER had to "feel" around for anything while giving me the epidurals or spinal. The epidural took effect almost immediately after they gave it to me -- and it took effect 100%. I also have to agree with the next post -- that inserting the IV into my arm was a MUCH MUCH worse experience!

My fear was that they are messing with my spine and what if they mess up and leave me paralyzed. Because I was so fearful the head of anesthesiology at Emerson did my epidural and I did not feel a thing. They swab your back with an antiseptic & anesthetic so you are clean and do not even feel the needle going in. They ask you to bend forward while sitting on the edge of the bed so your spine is rounded. The doctor stands behind you and you can't see what(s)he is doing! I was so afraid but it was simple and painless. For my next birth 3 years later I did not make a fuss and got the epidural from the anesthesiologist who was on duty, and that person was just as skilled and painless. There is some minor percentage of chance of problems, mostly associated with using non-clean needles which should not be a problem in a US hospital. If you are really worried, ask your doctor for you to have a meeting with anesthesia before you go in to get advice which is what I did. The squeaky wheel gets the grease, so perhaps you will get a more experienced person that way. Good luck and enjoy your new baby!

Hi,
It's not as bad as you think it really isn't i had two epidurals placed and then a spinal with my first child and with my second i had a spinal standard procedure is too put morphine in the spinal now which they did with my second son and i threw up every half hr for 7 hrs after my section. which you can imagine was not pleasant. So ask about the morphine and it also made me very itchy. I didn't have it with my first son. After the section make sure you lie flat and don't sit up i got a spinal headache with my first son from doing that they eventually had to go back in and fix it with a bld patch. When they are doing it just be very still and don't move at all it feels like a pinch then some pressure.
Good luck

Hi J.,

I had an epidural with my first child. I was freaked out because I wanted a natural labor and also I am an anesthesiologist so I know too much. I can honestly tell you that getting the epidural does not hurt. The hardest part is trying to maintain the postion (you have to sort of tuck up into a c shape, usually as you sit on the edge of the bed) if you are in active labor. If you are having a scheduled section this may not even be an issue because you might not even be in labor yet. They will give you a local block at the area in the back where they are going to put the epidural needle. That stings for maybe 10 seconds, like if you were getting a block for a dental filling. Then the area is numb. You won't feel the needle going in for the epidural, you will probably just feel the drugs going in which feel a little tingley and warm but do not hurt. If you are having contractions you will be so happy at that point because you will feel better.

There are complications of an epidural that your doctor will explain. (like a small percentage of people will get headaches afterwards). However these side effects are very rare and overall an epidural is much much safer than having any other kind of anesthesia or pain medication for you baby (like an IV drug). If I were you I would do my best to relax and think about your baby being happy and healthy.

Best of luck with the c-section. And remember after the procedure you will get to see your baby!

Best,

E.

Relax... I've had 3 epidurals and I also hate needles. You dont feel much at all. Good luck!!

I had an epidural with all 3 kids, vaginal delivery. I did not even feel it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You just sit there and it's done, b/c they put a numbing agent on your back. Super easy. Note, I was sitting there waiting for pain that never came. You must sit really still. Just know you CANNOT move b/c it could slip and not work. I was so scared of causing anything like that I was a statue.
But, no pain. Do not worry! Just recite the ABC's in your head so you are not thinking about it, b/c trying not to move is really hard. Best to put your mind elsewhere.

Hi J.,

I had a epidural with one of my children for a vaginal birth. I don't remember it being a big deal. They give you a shot of novocaine first to numb the area before they do the epidural I think. The novocaine hurts a little because it burns but that just lasts a couple of seconds. Try to relax and stay calm. Everything will be fine.

Best Wishes.

J.

J., I felt the same way as you with my #1, but then I had pitocin and the pain was so bad I had to have an epidural. It did hurt a little, because I was so tense. But I promise it was not so gad I had to stop it. It was kind of like the feeling when you hit your funny bone really hard and it tingles. Afterwards I had no problems with my back, maybe a bit of a bruised feeling. My fear had not been the needle, but that they would do it wrong. The advise I can give you is to try to stay relaxed and it's much easier. You may want to practice some relaxation techniques now, like yoga deep breathing. It will really help! With #2 I asked for an epi., so it wasn't so bad that I didn't want it again. Of course, The dr was too late and I had to deliver without it!!

Hi J.,

I had no problem with my epidural. First of all, you can't see the anesthesiologist because he/she will be behind you. Truthfully, the hardest thing for me was, when I was sitting up, he told me to bend forward more and more. My big belly was in the way and I kept asking him what he wanted me to do with it! But I was huge and all out in front, so that's probably why. I just did that slow deep breathing and it was quick.

They probably can numb the area first with a swab-on agent, so ask about that.

I am not big on drugs, but I have to say, the epidural was the only way to go. The only thing that hurt me was my shoulder because I had to lie on one side for so long - if I flipped over, the umbilical cord was compressed. But that won't happen to you since you are having a c-section.

The epidural wore off easily - I was surprised. I had no problems and no complications. I never noticed anything with my back afterwards - just the soreness from the delivery.

Try not to let your thoughts get ahead of you. The anesthesia goes into a sac around your spine and not into your spine itself. It's not going into vertebrae or the spinal cord. It is much much safer than general anesthesia which has lots of potential complications. You are doing the safest thing for yourself and for your baby. Good luck and happy baby!

I pass out almost every time I have to have blood drawn, but my epidural didn't bother me at all. In fact, the first one didn't take and they had to do a second, but it still wasn't a big deal.

You can do it!!

I have had three spinals with my three c sections and no issues with my back. It pinches when the needle is inserted but it is imperative that you do NOT move during the process. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths and went to my happy place knowing that it wasn't going to take too long. Please try to find some relaxation techniques to use so that you can have a smooth transition. Good luck!

Hi J.

I have had 2 c-sections both with spinals and had no problems at all I was a nervous wreck too! I did not feel the spinal at all the numb your back first you never see the needle and it just feels like small pinch for 1 second and I did not have any back pain afterwards at all. Hope this helps. Good Luck

Hi J.,
My first son was born (11-11-01) and I had a spinal with a cesarean. I was actually so relieved to get the spinal and felt no pain with it. I had been in labor for a few hours so at that point it was a relief to me.
But I also had one with my second and didn't feel any pain either...(I wasn't in labor with him..he was a scheduled cesarean) I would try not to worry so much about it...(I know easy for me to say) but I would just relax and enjoy that your baby is coming soon. =) Best Wishes!

i just had my second baby via c-sec in july, the fear of the epidural is much worse than the actual pain of it in my opinion. I did have tenderness on my spine for a few weeks afterwards however it was nothing I couldn't manage. best of luck to you, and just remember that end result is sooo worth it!! best of luck to you and the big sister!!

Hey J.--

I have had two vaginal births and one c-section delivery of a set of triplets. I had epidurals with all three (five?) deliveries. Even with the additional problem of having two compression fractured vertebrae, I had no problems with my epidurals. I highly recommend getting one, especially since that way you will be alert and awake to welcome your new little bundle!

Good Luck!

www.thosecrazybeans.blogspot.com

I had my son vaginally with an epidural. Didn't hurt at all...and I hate needles and hospitals.

To be honest, the IV hurt more (I cried like a baby it hurt so bad)...I didn't even feel the epidural. It's fast...so a couple minutes and you'll be done and glad you had one...they take the pain away immediately. I'd have another one in a heart beat. I had no side effects of the epidural during or after I had my son.

http://www.daniellewrites.webs.com

I have had the same medical phobias and issues with needles as you. the good thing abou tthe epidural is that you don't see it...I was having contractions and delivered vaginally but I did not really feel more than a tiny pinch from my epidurals ( I had them with each pregnancy)and no back issues after...my best friend had a spinal for a vaginal brith and said she could feel the pain killer weakening as she delivered rather than a Epidural that stays connected and the medicine keeps flowing. I have not had a c section ... good luck and make sur eyou get enough rest afterward and let people help you...Good Luck! you will be so anxious for your baby the phobias go away... really they did with me and now I can give blood and get shots without passing out.

HI J.- I had a spinal 10 years ago when my twins were born. I, too was terrified of what it would be like. I fainted when I had my ears pierced, and nearly faint every time I have blood drawn- my BP drops dramatically because I'm so scared. So, like you, the thought of having a needle in my spine was the worst I could imagine. I wanted to try to have a natural birth, but the doctors convinced me that a C-section was the best option for the babies.
Also, I'd suffered from sciatica for many years, and was very worried that a spinal would make my condition worse (although they don't inject in the same part of the spine).
In the end, it was fine. First, they inject some Novocain to numb the area. Then, you have to try to make yourself into a ball-hard to do with all that baby belly!, and then they give you the spinal. They told me it would feel like a bee sting, but it wasn't even that bad. I thought, "hmm, was that it?" So, I wouldn't worry about it.
I had no issues with my back/spine since. It did not affect my sciatica.
I think the hardest part of the c-section process is the immobilzation. Immediately after they give you the shot, they make you move onto the operating table before the spinal can take effect. That was hard to do.
There was no sensation at all during the procedure, except when the babies were taken out- there was a tugging feeling. Having others move my legs around when they were cleaning me up afterward was weird. The effects lasted longer than I expected. Trying to get your legs moving again and not being able to, or seeing them flop around as you try to control them is also weird, but it gets better slowly. I imagine you'll be so engrossed in the baby, that you won't pay it much attention.
It should be fine. I imagine you've had worse pain that this ( I know I have), and it's very brief. The excitement of the baby will make you forget. Try and relax so you can savor this event.
Best of luck!

I had a C-section with my 2nd child and there was no pain when getting the epidural. I had a very traumatic vaginal birth with my first son and the C-section was wonderful for my second. No need to worry, it will be fine! Good Luck!

J.,
I had an Epidural and there was no pain the person giving it rubbed something on my back a local to numb area.I too hate shots but thiswas no bug deal. L.

Hi J..

I had never had an epidural until my son was born 4 years ago. I did not have my cesarean planned so I did not worry too much, I too do not like needles. I can honestly say it is not too bad! I kept asking if it was going to hurt and he said not really!!( what would he know he is a man I was thinking!) It was not painful but I would say uncomfortable..but it was quick. I hope this helps. Just keep thinking of the little miracle ahead! Good Luck and Congrats!

the procudure for a spinal or epi is the same. there will be pain going in but once it's in no problem.

i had an epi put in for my first birth but ended up having an emergency c-section, b/c i started with an epi, i couldn't switch to a spinal... and i felt alot during my section (mostly after the baby was out and they were closing me up).

for my second it was a planned section so i went right to the spinal. again some pain to get the needle in, but once it was in i was fine. and the spinal blocked everything and i didn't feel as much as i did with the first one.

so i'd say you can get through the pain of the needle insertion knowing that it will save you pain later.

i didn't have any problems with the injection site afterwards.

I had a c-section and it went very well. The epidural was not a big deal (though everything seems like it is right now!). Not sure how to describe it...not painful. Maybe like someone poking a pen at you. The best way to get through it is to have some kind of imagery or breathing exercise. I held my husbands hands and breathed and counted to 8 in "dancer counts" since I dance. "1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8; 2-2-3-4-5-6-7-8; 3-2-3-4-5-6-7-8; 4-2-3-4-5-6-7-8; etc." Counting to 10 many times, counting to 100, counting in different languages, saying ABC...who knows what will work for you, but anything to relax and keep your mind focused will help. Don't think about the needle, think about seeing your baby soon or something like that. No problems with my back afterwards, though I do know there is always a risk. Hopefully you will have a good experience...just stay positive!

hi J., I had an epidural with my first child almost 23 yrs ago. Your post caught my attention because I have just had a second child in august of 2008 : ) SURPRISE !! Anyway, I don't believe that too many people actually like needles. I believe that when it comes time to have the epidural that you will be so focused on the baby that is about to arrive that you wont be as nervous about it. I remember having double contractions and being so involved in the force of that crazy pain that I did not really notice the needle. What I would do is find something ,anything to draw my attention away from what is going on behind you. My second birth was all natural and my daughter was my coach and my husband caught our new baby ( lily mae ) my daughter then cut the cord ( she was awesome ). The epidural is not comfortable but i believe that it is more anxiety then actual pain. It will be over before you know it and the worry you are having over this is probably the worst part. BREATHE : ) GOOD LUCK TO YOU AND CONGRATULATIONS -L. C PS. would love to know how it goes.

It was definitely not as bad as all of the contractions I was having. I am not a huge fan of needles especially to the spine also but the cool thing is that you can't see it and a nurse is with you the whole time, talking to you and calming you down. Try to think of it as part of the birth process and not a huge issue unto itself. Congratulations on the to-be birth of your baby! and hang in there!
Nat

J.:
First off-congrats on almost meeting your little one!!! Second, I had epidurals with both of my children. I have to admit, I was totally freaked out with the idea of someone putting a needle in my back and all the "what ifs". But, just like labor and delivery, what I had psyched myself up for was SO much worse than the actual process. Yes, it was annoying having to stay still the entire time and all the prep involved, but they numb the area really well and all I felt was pressure - no pain. I was in labor with both my children, nto having it in anticipation of a C-section so my experience may be skewed but I did want to share it. But I had no side effects at all from either epi. Just think of it as a necessary evil to meet your new little one, take a few deep breaths and squeeze the hell out of the hand of whomever is next to you. Good luck - let us know how it goes!!!

Hi J.
Congratulations in advance... I had a beautiful daughter 16 months ago via c section (not planned c section). I was induced into labor since my daughter was a week late. All my friends who had children said to me "don't be a marter, get the epi ASAP because it takes a while for them to order". I opted to receive the epidural as soon as I felt ANY unbearable pain from labor. They came about 40 minutes later... and boy, it couldn't have been soon enough.... my labor pain became unbearable and what a relief the epidural was!!! My husband was there holding me and distracting me... I never looked at the needle and I may or maynot have felt a sharp quick pain 1/2 a second or so... (the pain was so fleeting it is hard to even remember) then a cold feeling in my back and then ahhhhh relief!!!! Everyone is different and you should do what is right for you but from my experience, I would never consider not getting one an option. by the way... 27 hours of labor, 5 hours of pushing...finally a c section with a fever and infection in my body from my daughter being stuck... Thank Goodness I had an epidural most of that time! Good luck!

I had an epideral, no pain. Maybe a little pinch. I was really nervous too! One baby I had to have it done twice because he did something wrong. I was more nervous of contracting while he did it. You should not have that problem. I never had a C-section though. My sister in law did with twins and she said it was cake. Everyone is different though. Don't be to nervous, the unknown is the problem. Good luck and post pics, I love babies.

M.

Hi J.,

I had 2 vaginal deliveries and had epidurals with both. The needles don't really bother me, but I had 2 totally different expierences. With my first pregnancy, I found the numbing shot to sting, but otherwise the process of inserting the needle was really not painful. But keep in mind I was already contracting pretty good at this point, so the "pain" of the needle was very little compared to the pain of the contraction. The rest of the labor was pain-free and I felt very, very little. My epidural did slow my labor down big time and I ended pushing for 3 hours at the end with no med. Giving me more med. would have stalled my labor completely, so I basically went natural. So, the labor was fine for 12 + hours, but the delivery was painful and exhausting.

My second pregnancy is sort of the opposite. The epidural was done incorrectly and leaked spinal fluid, becoming a "wet tap" or spinal. It took 3 docs 1.5 hours to insert the meds and get it going. That still didn't hurt that much compared the contractions I was having. I felt some relief but asked for an increase after a little while. The doctor checked me soon after and I was 10 plus 2 and the baby was crowning...I didn't feel a thing! Three pushes and out. But because of the wet tap, I ended up with a spinal headache, which was far more painful the either epidural, labor or delivery. I had to have 2 blood patches to clot the hole in the spinal and the only partial relief was laying down and drinking caffeine. So, first was good epidural, rough delivery...second was bad epidural, easy delivery. All this said, however, I would def. get another epidural for my next pregnancy.

Sorry to babble. Hope this helps. Good Luck!
Kate

I have had two epidurals and neither one was painful. Stressing yourself out can make the whole situation worse. You won't feel the needle going in, but you may feel a dull prick when they are inside. I thought the contractions were way worse and i was relieved to have an epidural. Good luck.

Hi,

I had epidurals for both my deliveries and I had to have a spinal for another issue and I too was not thrilled at the thought of a needle in my spine! It was not big deal, however, especially since I couldn't see the needle (I always have to look away when blood is drawn). The only thing with the spinal is waiting for your legs to get unfloppy. :)

Good luck!

I had an epidural when I gave birth to my son 19 months ago. I don't remember the process of getting an epi being painful at all. True, I was trying to birth a face up baby, which was pretty painful... ;) But really, I wouldn't worry about it. They numb the area before they touch you and it doesn't hurt at all.

As for afterwards, I had some numbness in my right thigh for a bit which they said was more likely due to the baby pushing on my nerves than the epidural I had. The numbness eventually went away and we're fine! I'm due to have our second baby in March and plan to avoid an epi if I can, but I know that should I need one, they're totally fine!

Also, as a fellow bedrester (six months with my first!) congrats on making it all the way! I know how hard it is! Focus on the success, not on the needle. In the end, the needle won't have mattered anyway!!! :D

Hi J.. I had an epidural with my son. Here's the deal: yes, it hurts, it's a needle, but it is totally bearable. It's done quickly, and takes effect quickly. I had no issues with my back afterwards and everything returned to normal. They will have you sit on the side of the bed and curl forward to arch your back, insert the needle, inject the anesthesia, and you're done. The people who administer it will have done it a million times and will coach you and support you through it, and it will be over before you know it. I was scared at first, it was not something I wanted or had planned on having done, but it was such a huge relief afterwards. Tell yourself, over and over, that you can do this, and you will be fine--because it's true! Also, instead of focusing on your fear of the procedure, focus on the benefit--having it done is what is going to help you have your child.

I had an epidural and a C sections with my son almot 2 years ago.. and the needing in the back was done SO FAST that it was like it never even happened. I dont think i even felt it at all.

B.

don't worry too much! I have had 5 deliveries, all with epidurals, the last one being a c-section. I would't say they are "painful"...more just a strange sensation, i think when the fluid goes in. It is pretty quick too. I had absolutley no problems with my back afterwards either. congratulations..enjoy your new baby!!

I had to have an epidural when I was well into labor because my baby was breech. I remember it being uncomfortable, probably a little painful, but I remember the labor pains being MUCH worse. I also have a phobia of needles. What I do do when I have to have one is scratch myself pretty firmly somewhere else on my body when they do the stick so I can focus on that instead. Also, try to talk to someone about another topic to help distract you. It's a pretty short procedure. I'm sure looking back on the day you will remember seeing and holding your new baby and the epidural will just be a small detail on the side.

Congrats and good luck!

The pain of childbirth makes the spinal a cake walk. It's quick and you feel nothing after - just relax and good luck with your new baby!

I had an epidural, no cesarean though. The process itself isn't painful since they first anesthetize the area. You will feel a little discomfort though. When the first gave me the epidural, they didn't do it right and I could still feel the contractions. It was pretty bad. In the morning they gave me a second one and this time they did it right. Bliss! I didn't feel a thing. No contractions and pushing the baby out was a breeze. No side effects either. So just make sure, if possible, that you have an experienced person doing the procedure.
Word of caution though: Since you don't feel any pain, you might go overboard and push too hard and then end up with muscle cramps. I had it in my neck :-(

Honestly...it's not bad at all! It feels like your pinching your you skin between your fingernails! (times 5)! I was terrified and then pleasantly surprised! Trust your nurse! I had to lean over on my nurses shoulder and relax! I did exactly that, following a contraction. And it was over in a second! The stick was followed by a warm sensation traveling through my body!
Good luck! I had 2 c-sections. I had a great experience with both! Recovery was good WITH the pain meds! Don't be afraid to ask for stronger meds! Let your body tell you!

Hi. I had 2 c-sections, and I did not find the epidural to be really bad at all. I believe they gave me something to numb the area. They had me sit up and bend way over to my knees. I could kind of feel what they were doing, not really painful. I felt the needle went in, but that was it. I am the biggest baby when it comes to needles, and I certainly don't like pain. I hate the dentist the most. I will honestly tell you that the epidural was nothing really. I have never encountered any problems with my back since I had the two c-sections.

Congratulations on the new baby!!

I had an emergency C section so I had no time to worry about it. It only felt like a little pinch, it really wasn't bad at all. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to sit still, but the nurse held me tight. Instantly afterwards I lost all feeling in my legs. Just like when you get a shot, it is a little pinch and it's over with. I have not had any problems afterwards. Good luck! It might seem scary to think about ahead of time, but you will be so happy to see that baby afterward. I think the epidural part is the least painful part of it all!

I had two c-sections and had no issues with the spinal. You have to sit on the table and curl into yourself, tough with a huge belly, then they put the needle in after they numb the area a little. I put my forehead on my dr.'s shoulder, and the whole thing took less than 5 minutes. The toughest thing for me was the lack of control, since you start to feel prickly and numb right away, and you are basically at the control of the doctors and nurses who lie you down, spread your arms out, etc. The anesthesiologist will be at your head the whole time monitoring your vitals and making sure you are comfortable. I do feel some nausea with anesthesia so they gave me a little anti-nausea medicine in my IV both times. Overall, it was a very positive experience for me - I loved and trusted my dr. and all the staff at the hospital. The pain was very manageable. The recovery was much tougher than the procedure for me! Take your pain meds those first four or five days, then you will be feeling so much better. Take it easy, it's not an easy thing to go through but it is all so worth it and I'd do it again right now if I could! Good luck!!

Hi J.

I am not scared of needles, but I totally understand your fear, especially after they make you sign what feels like 23 pages of releases for things that could possibly go wrong. BUT
I had epidurals for both of my pregnancies (not c-sections, so I'm not sure if there's a difference) and there was no problem with the needle either time. You will also have to have an IV in your arm, which for me was the worst part. But presumably you've done that before, so do whatever coping mechanism you have to for that part. For the actual epidural, they use a numbing agent like lidocaine first, and that does sting like a bee sting. But then you don't feel anything with the actual spinal. The good thing is that it's in your back, so you couldn't see what is happening even if you wanted too. You do have to hold very still, which can be hard if you're nervous. My husband held my hand and helped to keep me steady. I didn't feel a thing when they removed it, and, even though I am quite prone to migraines, I experienced no headaches or anything else after the fact.
The one thing that I recommend is that you be really honest with your OB before you go in and really hammer home the point that you are really scared and would like a LOT of reassurance from the anesthesiologist. My hospital experiences have led me to believe that anesthesiologists don't always have the best bedside manner because most of the time they don't have to have one (their patients are sleeping!) Still, you have every right to insist that you are told what is going on and who is doing the procedure, etc etc.
I am totally sure that it will go great, and congratulations on the new one.

J.,

I had an epidural and barely even felt it. Don't know if it helps but since they are behind you so don't see anything either.

Good Luck!

Hi J.. I had 2 csections both with spinals. I would do it again if I could. They have you sit on the side of the O.R. Table and place the injection into lower back/spinal column. It hurts a little and I'm a huge wimp with needles. I used to pass out. Within seconds u r numb from the waist down. Then they test your numbness with a pointy object so they know when u r ready. I never felt a thing except some tugging. After just take the pain meds right when due and you'll heal better. Good luck and don't worry. Its not bad and well worth it

I hope it went well. It has by now surely happened.

I've had a final twice. Once for c-section, once for knee surgery. Both times went great! It was basically just a pin prick in the back.

At the c-section, I was able to be awake and aware during the birth of our son. It was so cool, I could feel his volume leaving me...just from a different location. No pain. I did throw up during the proceedings but that was separate. I was nauseous the ENTIRE 9 months.

I hope you had a healthy baby and are thoroughly enjoy your little one!

J.,

I have had both a spinal and an epidural. If you are just going in and you know you are going for a C-Section you WANT the spinal. You recover faster. Really the epidural is for women who birth their children it isn't meant for those just going in for a planned C-section.
For me it was easier know when the needle would go in. For some it's not. The first time they just told me you would feel a lot of pressure - well I did but when the needle went in and there was a little pinch I involuteerily moved which wasn't good. The second time I asked them to talk me through it and tell me when they would insert the needle so I could relax and breath through it. It worked great for me. Just remember you won't feel it once it's in and at the end you will have a beautiful baby.

Good luck,
L.

Yay...congratulations on the soon to be new addition to your family! One of the greatest days of your life is right around the corner.
I had 2 c-section -first one was emergency, second one was planned. The second one was a piece of cake! I was given a combination of an spinal -epidural. Spinals only work for 1.5 hours and at that time, they switch over to the epidural. My c-section was complicated and that is why they needed the extra anesthetic.
Pain wise....they numb the area where they insert the small catheter/needle into your back with lidocaine. The need used to do that is very small, not much bigger than the needles used to give small children their shots/vaccinations. So, all you will feel is the pinch of the numbing medication needle and then some pressure from the epidural/spinal needle.
Most importantly, relaxing will help to ease any discomfort. Believe in your nurses and anesthesiologists because they only want to help.
Enjoy this day and good luck to you!

Try not to get too worried about it. I too am terrified of needles, but the epidural really wasn't bad at all. They numb up the skin a little with a topical analgesic (at least they did for me), and really it just felt like getting a shot. After the pain of being in labor for a little while, the pain of the needle was certainly the lesser of the two evils!

I am very scared of all things medical- and I have to say my epidural did not hurt at all! No problems with my back either

Hi J.,
I have had both Spinals, and epidurals for my childbirth experiences. I can tell you honestly, that I preferred the epidural because I knew that the needle was not going to go directly into my spine. When the epidural was done many years ago, I had to lay on my side, and roll into a ball, (no easy feat when you are about to give birth!), they numbed the area where they were going to put the needle, then they inserted the needle. I did feel pressure, because they did have to make sure they had the right spot to insert the tubing, but no pain. The anestietha took about 15 minutes to fully take effect, then they delived my baby. I felt the pressure of the doctor doing the surgury, but again, no pain. It really was quite an adventure. I never had any problems with my back after the surgury, and recovery was great. I really liked being awake for the delivery. I know this because my first baby was born while I was under general anestiesa, (totally knocked out) and when I "came to", it was most unpleasant. the pain hit me all at once! The nurses had me doing deep breathing, and making me cough to clear my lungs and they were checking my uterus, and it hurt!
The recovery room experience was much better with the epidural, while in recovery I was able to do deep breathing without being in pain, and also when the nurses had to check to make sure the uterus is contracting properly, it was not a bad feeling at all. It took a while to wear off, so it was a nice feeling to get used to the discomfort of the surgury gradually, instead of all at once like I did with the general ansestisia.
With the spinal,(3d delivery) it was pretty much the same, Lay on the side, poke around, etc, except I felt nauseous and felt like I couldn't breathe after they gave it to me. I don't know if that happens to everyone, but it did to me. The recovery was still great, and I didn't experience any "spinal headaches", that I had been warned about. With technology the way it is, woman probably don't even get spinal headaches anymore. Didn't have any back problems with the spinal, either.
But, anyway, those are my experiences. If I were delivering again, I would definalty choose the epidural. Good luck and congratulations on the upcoming delivery and birth of your baby!

hi...ive had 2 c-sections and both time had 2 epi's. its not that its painful, fo rme just a wierd uncomfortable feeling.hope this helps

I've had 2 epidurals; one for a surgery and one for childbirth. It is a needle in your spine (so you probably won't even see it coming). When it comes to pain I am very sensitive and opted for the epidurals to minimize discomfort.
So basically you have to be very still while they insert the needle, it does hurt and takes a few seconds. They taped mine really well so it wouldn't come loose or pull. Once it kicks in there is numbness inside your body which really weirded me out!

When it was time to push I didn't feel anything and couldn't pinpoint the muscles to push until after several contractions. It took a wile for the feeling to come back and I did have an achy back (not sure if it was from laying around or the epidural).

There have been cases of complications with epidurals so ask questions. I'm not familiar with C-sections but when I was having my baby there was a point when I was told if I didn't want the epidural I couldn't change my mind because it would be too late.

Best wishes to you.

I had an epi before a c-section and the anticipation of the epidural was WAY worse than the actual procedure. I was sweating bullets through the whole thing, lying sideways crouched over as much as i could at 41 weeks, worrying about them missing or how badly it would hurt. My husband and the docs were telling me to just relax the whole time, but then it wasn't bad at all - barely felt it!! Worked beautifully, no side effects and it was done quickly. Relax and breathe as much as you can and good luck!

I had planned on a natural childbirth but got an epidural as I couldn't take the labor pain. I was very nervous but it was seriously nothing compared to labor. You will be FINE!

Congrats and good luck!

They do numb the area first before the insert the needle. I had two c-sections and I barely remember the spinal part of it. The IV for me was always worse, but they have a spray they can use to numb that area too before they try to do the IV, just ask for it (I have really little veins in my wrist so they have to poke around a bit sometimes). Before long you'll have a beautiful new baby in your arms, so try to focus on that instead of the mild discomfort. Good luck!

J.-
I understand the needle thing. When I had my son (at 19) my best friend had to attend EVERY time I needed a needle for whatever reason.
She was graduated the day I had my son so was only able to come and go throught the day. Not haivng her there for a few of them...even when I nearly passed out and the nurse had to catch me actually helped me. I can tollerate them better.
I had something called a suffenta block. It's like a walking epodural that I guess only our hospital (@least in our area) uses it. I was having a vaginal birth so I was having contraction pains, I think that helps deal with the needle. It does feel wierd. It does pinch and its not pain free. I choose to have 2 that delivery and 2 the next. My back did have a soar area where it was done for a while. Not constantly but it was there.
I've never had a c-section and fear it as you are now. Everyone tells me that dealing with all the emotions and preperations helps deal with everything.
I will keep you in prayer.
I hope my experience helps you some. I know it's not the same but it was the needle in the back.

I had an epidural a year ago. I was very scared because of all the rumors I heard and the books I read. When it came down to it it was absolutely nothing to worry about. It was so quick, it didn't hurt and my baby was out in 8 minutes. If you think about it it will hurt much less than having the baby naturally. I would do it again if I got pregnant. I do agree though that you should make sure you have a real doctor instead of an intern doing it. Good Luck!

An epidural is like a bee sting in your back (which is actually the novacane), if that bad. All you really feel is some pressure, but not much discomfort. I have had 2 epidurals and one spinal and never had issues after. Good luck, just focus on the little one about to arrive!

I completely understand your fear! I have a similar fear of needles as well. If even reading about needles makes you uncomfortable, please do not read below.

After a beautiful pregnancy, I was diagnosed with HELLP Syndrome at 30 weeks. The only cure is delivery. Since my daughter was so little (2 pounds, 2 ounces), there was no option of a natural delivery. I was crushed and completely wacked out on medication they gave me. I had no idea what to expect because I had not prepared myself for the ordeal and just assumed I would be in for a painful delivery that lasted 24 hours. That was my mindset when they wheeled me in and told me that they had to deliver my daughter. So, yes, I was more frightened than a planned C-section. Survival of my daughter was in question.

Honestly, the pain during the needle procedure was not as great as the idea of what was happening to me. The first needle definitely hurts, but it is not unbearable. You feel the second one, but only for a minute. It is more of the sensation than pain. By the 3rd you cannot feel anything. I have no idea if there are more than 3. After that, they lay you down on the table and you feel a very odd, almost numb sensation shoot down your leg, and then the other. It is very surreal.

The hardest thing during the needle part, was not having my husband or someone I could trust there while did the procedure. I felt completely exposed. You are sitting on a table, leaning over as best you can, hugging a pillow. Your back is exposed the the heavens and you can imagine the rest. I really would have liked to have had my husband with me during this time. The best thing to do is take a deep breath, tell them you are ready and just go for it. It lasts only a few seconds. It is so exciting to see your new child in just a few minutes after that, you really do forget about it for a while. It is absolutely worth it to have a safe, healthy child! The best thing I can tell you for afterwords, is try, try, try not to think about it or go to counseling. It has actually helped me to see a counselor. Perhaps there is one in your area that can help you prior? It is definitely worth checking out. I think hypnotherapy and other forms are quite effective!

Best of luck! You will be fine - and so will your kid!

J.,

Hi, I have had quite a few needles in my spine, 4 because of a car accident and 3 for c-sections. When it is for a c-section they normally use a really tiny needle to inject some numbing stuff so you won't feel the big needle. The most pain I had was from that tiny needle and just the pain from trying to stay curled in a ball with my HUGE stomach. lol It was like the Novocaine that dentists use, if you've ever had a filling the little pinch with a slight burn. There are a few side effects, and I guess I may be the only one responding who had one. My spinal went to high so I started loosing feeling in my breasts. They were able to stop the reaction (it was scary) and everything ended fine, but if they haven't warned you, it can happen. I also had some spinal fluid leakage, but they fill you up with Coke (the drink) and give you caffeine in your IV to stop it. As another reader said they can do a blood patch as well.

One of my Spinals that was from the auto accident was done very badly and I do have some permanent nerve damage from it, but they WILL NOT be going into your spine like they did mine so no worries. Just know if the person giving it to you jokes that your his/her first ask for someone else. You just have to let them know if you feel anything funny. Remember their there to make it as comfortable for you as possible and I am sure once you see your little bundle you will forget everything.

Good luck
R.