Questions About Labor and Breastfeeding

I had a c-section with my LO and never had problems with BF. I was very dopey for about 1 hr. after delivery but otherwise fine. He is 7 mo. old and still going strong with BF!

I suggest you look into the Bradley Method - www.bradleybirth.com. My husband and I went through the classes when I was pregnant and it helped me a lot. I still use the relaxation process whenever I'm in the dentist's chair!

I have successfully breastfed after 2 c-sections. After my 1st, my only pain med was ibuprofen & there were no side-effects with my daughter.
My 2nd delivery had complications; I was basically sedated for 3 days, then on a morphine drip for 2 more days after that. My baby was fed formula until I was strong enough, but I was still on basic meds at the time but she showed no signs of side-efects. Good luck with making the right decision for you & CONGRATULATIONS!

I just recently had a baby boy (4 months) I took Bradley classes to prepare for childbirth. I highly recommend them if you would want to try a natural childbirth. I made it to six centimeters, but then my body quit dilating. I remained at six for five hours, so I had an epidural. Mine did not take very well. So basically I ended up all natural anyway. As for the episiotomy, DO NOT GET ONE!! You do have say. A tear is what your body would naturally do. These heal at a much faster rate than a cut. I tore with my son and you don't even feel it. To prepare the vaginal openning for birth you should do perineal massage starting at 34 weeks pregnant. You could find tons of info on it online. Also, if you are prone to headaches from spinals, I would steer clear of the epidural. I had a raging headache for 3 weeks postdelivery due to the epidural. And if you plan on nursing, I wouldn't take anything stronger than tylenol or ibuprofen. Good luck!

Oh, sweetie! You REALLY need to try to relax a little. Your body really WAS designed SPECIFICALLY to carry and deliver a child. I suggest you look into meditation and relaxation techniques for use during your pregnancy. Being stressed out can affect so many aspects of your life: It will take a physical tole on your body and unborn baby, it can affect your daughter's behavior, and your relationship with your husband. You and your entire family (including your baby) will all benefit from you being more relaxed.

That said:

There are various pain control options. From breating/relaxation techniques to IV drugs, to epidurals. My suggestion is to learn about all of them, and then go into into it with an open mind. Don't get your heart set on a natural childbirth, or determine that you're automatically going to get an epidural. You can AIM for your plan, but take it one contraction at a time and base your decision on how you're doing, not a preconceived notion of what you think labor SHOULD be. Labor is different for everyone. For me, contractions were like gas pains (a sharp abdominal pain where you have to be still for a few seconds) but they lasted a little longer & were in the area where I get cramps. With my first baby, I had half a dose of nubane (yes, half doses are an option too). With my second, I didn't need any pain meds.

I didn't have a C-section, so I can't speak to that, but I know moms who have had C-sections and nursed successfully.

As other people have said, you can do pereneal massage to decrease the chance of tearing. But I tore with both of my girls (didn't do the massage) and it really, truly wasn't that bad. There is so much pressure on that area at the time that you don't even really feel it tear, and it heals within a couple weeks. And yes, doctors are coming to realize that a tear is better than a cut.

It seems like the best thing for you to do at this point is just to research, research, research. As someone else said, the books by Dr. William Sears are GREAT!!! So check those out and try not to worry so much about it. BILLIONS of women have gone through this. Relax and let your body do what it was MADE to do!

One more thing: It sounds like you are a woman who would feel less worried if you were allowed to have input about your labor, rather than leaving it all up to someone else (a Dr.). If this is true, I recommend seeing a Certified Nurse Midwife. CNMs are trained just like doctors, except when it comes to major problems. If a problem arises or you have a high-risk pregnancy, they would call in an OB/GYN. My CNM was in a practice with several OBGYNs, had hospital privileges and also did C-sections (I believe). So I delivered at a hosptial, which felt very safe to me. Midwives are more likely to allow the mother to do what they feel is right during labor & delivery. For instance, they'll often let you labor in whatever position you feel like, they won't make you push if you don't feel the urge at that moment, etc. I was much more satisfied with my second delivery because I had a CNM-- I felt more in control of the situation, but also felt comforted that if I didn't know what to do next, my midwife was there to guide me.

As a mother of four, I am no expert, but do know a little on some of your questions. The episiotomy is a good thing to have. It is much harder for them to repair a tear than a clean incision, and less scarring. I have had natural and assisted (drugs) births. The fact that this is your first pregnancy no amount of prenatal classes or lamaze is going to alleviate all your fears. Only after it is over will you say, "That wasn't so bad." The epidural will not take all the pain away, but it will take the edge off when it is most needed. The natural way, is when those breathing techniques will come in very handy. And they do work. I have never had a c-section so cannot comment on it, just be sure to talk it over thoroughly with the Dr. until you are satisfied. As this is only the opinion of me, certainly not a doctor, with your medical situation I would be going natural, it will be easier on you and the baby. I hope some of this helps you and I wish you the best.

I cant help you with all of your questions, but I can tell you I nursed very sucessfully after my C-Section. I didnt get to nurse my daughter untill about 2hrs after delivery, and we had no problems! She was a champ!!! I did make sure however that she was to be given NO bottles, or pacifiers while in the nursery. Hope this helps,and good luck!

Hey! How exciting for you! There are so many scary things about being pregnant, but it's really true when people say it's worth it all. I had to have an unplanned C-section and I won't lie - it wasn't fun. I have a low pain tolerance, though, so I was on my pain meds for a month. Two friends of mine had C-sections the week before me and one of them stopped her pain meds when she went home and the other did after a week at home. It's very different for each person.

All three of us successfully breastfed. The hardest part is lying down and then having to sit up. I slept on our couch the first month because it was lower to the ground and easier to get up from. Newborns don't kick or fight as much the first few weeks - I think our daughter was swaddled most of the time I fed her then - so you don't have many problems with nursing and dealing with the incision getting bumped. (Thank goodness it heals before they reach 4 months and it gets hard to keep them focused on the task at hand!)

The medication I took didn't seem to adversely affect our daughter, although I have heard that sometimes it does, but I think there are several alternatives out there that would help alleviate pain, you just need to be in communication with your OB and pediatrician.

This may be a naive way to look at it, but I think the best thing to do is focus on the end result and if you really want a child, don't think about any of the in between. Once you're pregnant, then you can worry about it. And you will. :) Then after you have the baby, you really will forget how awful it was (eventually). We want to have another baby next year, so I will probably have to have another C-section and I'm dreading it, so I don't think about that part. And all I have to do is see our incredible little girl and it just melts my heart and makes it all worth while. Good luck!

1. A spinal headache is a possible complication of an epidural but the odds are in your favor not to happen because they are not trying to extract spinal fluid.

2. I did not have c-sections but a very close friend has had three. She breast fed all three boys without any problems. Its possible that the first couple of feedings right after birth they could give the baby a bottle and after the first 12-24 hrs. they usually are giving you pain meds. by mouth. I had two vaginal deliveries and my Dr. gave me percocet which is pretty potent and I breast fed.

3. It depends on the size of the baby and how much your body is able to stretch. It is very common to do one or the other and the odds are against you there. I won't lie it is very uncomfortable for a week or two. However, you really don't care because you feel so blessed to have this new baby. A squirt bottle with warm water was my best friend when I went to the bathroom.

4. The only other meds I know about is Stadol which can be given twice during labor. Any IV narcotics used during labor can definetely affect the baby. They can be born really sleepy and hard to arouse, which means there going to be spending the first few hours of life in the nursery and not in your arms. You can get a local anesthetic injected in your perineal area to numb that area during delivery (you wouldn't feel an episiotomy or tear) but does not help labor pains. I personally had epidurals both times and wouldn't do it any other way. You don't know your pain tolerance until your in that situation. Hope all this helps. B.

Hi B.. I had my first (and only) child at age 36. I had a scheduled c-section because the baby was breach and would not stay turned even after being manually manipulated. I was in the hopspital (Missouri Baptist) for the usual four days and got wonderful guidance on breastfeeding. I don't even remember what meds they gave me but I followed the program. I had no problems with breast feeding and did so for a year. All the best to you and yours. M.

My son was born at 33 weeks he was 4lbs 11oz at birth and had to be on a resprater and be intabated soon after birth. He was also a C-section baby. Through all of this I was able to breastfeed no problem. My milk had not even come in yet I just pumped and everything turned out fine. Dont worry things will work out this is what our bodys were ment to do.. It is a wonderfull experence being pregnant, personally I can't wate to do it again.

I had a C-Section 18 months ago and breastfed for 5 months after my baby was born.

Hi B.,

I would not worry, there are many different pain medications that you are able to use. I am not sure if you are trying to have a natural birth but if so you might want to hire a doula. I am a doula and I am not trying to get business but we are there for the mother and the father. We try different positions to try to ease the pain. If you have any questions I would be more than happy to answer them for you.

N.
____@____.com

Hi B.!
I know every woman is different, but I will share some opinions that i gained from my experiences. I went into labor on my own with my first two, and they were fairly quick (5 hrs and 2 hrs!) so I had no epidural. I tore with both of them, but I had no idea because there was already so much going on "down there". My third one, however, was quite comfortable in my belly (and is still a momma's boy!). I had to be induced with him, with pitocin, and it was a whole different ball game! The pain became very intense earlier in the labor, so I got the epidural. It actually took quite a long time to wear off of one leg, but it was still worth it.

With my first baby, I got half of a dose of nubane, and it helped take the edge off of the contractions. With my second baby, I got a full dose and I felt drunk. I didn't like it at all, and wouldn't recommend it.

There are many methods of labor you could try, such as using the birthing ball, or laboring in the tub, that you could discuss with your doctor. If you can learn to relax your muscles and resist tension, that is what helped me the first two times!

My sister had a c-section, and nursed successfully afterward. She used the "football" hold, and it was a little easier on her stomach.

Good luck with everything, it is a wonderful experience!
C.

Congratulations on both your adoption and decision to have another baby! As a mother of 2 amazing kids, I can say that pregnancy and childbirth are two of the most amazing phenomenons I have witnessed. I was anxious about the changes my body would go through with my first pregnancy too. One thing that helped me was to register on babycenter.com. You enter your email and due date and the website sends you a weekly update on what is changing during your pregnancy, how the baby is growing, how your body is changing, and some items to begin thinking about in regard to delivery and life with baby. The website also provides tons of information on any thing you can ask. You can search anything! It also continues to send you developmental updates on your baby/child after delivery.

That being said, I am not sure you can ever be totally prepared for labor. I also read Becoming Birthwise, and What to Expect When You're Expecting, and took the birthing class at the hospital with both my pregnancies and promptly forgot all about it when the time came for the babies to be born! Be flexible and know that everything will be fine.

I delivered vaginally with both and had epidurals with both. I do remember getting a headache for a day or two with my first, but it wasn't severe for me. That is probably something that depends on the person.

As far as nursing after a c-section, every one of my friends who had c-sections with their children (and 3 of them have had 3 children each via c-section) had no problems breastfeeding, and they breastfed all their kids. I was at the hospital immediately after one birth and both mom and baby were doing great nursing.

I think the biggest issue will be that it is your first time nursing. My best advice is to utilize the hospital's lactation consultants as often as needed. Both of my kids were pretty jaundiced after birth and had trouble latching on, but the nurses helped me every time I nursed to get the baby latched on. I also called the lactation consultant several times a week in the first few weeks at home and she was always supportive and helpful. If you want to nurse, make the committment to do it BEFORE the baby comes. It is challenging in the first few days/weeks and you have to be completely committed to get through. It also helps to have your spouse's support. My husband was a great support to me and kept me going when I wanted to quit. Take a class and read some books about breastfeeding, or contact your local La Leche League for more information and great support.

Since I've delivered vaginally, I can't talk about the pain associated with a c-section, but I can say that vaginal delivery comes with it's pain afterward as well. I took what ever pain medication they had (but only 1/2 a dose until they made me take the full dose!) and I was not too tired to nurse. It was my experience with both births that I was on too much of an emotional 'high' to really feel how tired I was.

About tearing/episiotomy. I read that you can massage your perianal area with almond oil or vitamin e oil starting several weeks before birth, and I tried to do this. I found it strange to do, and difficult to find the time to do it. I do know one person who had perianal massage with oil during labor (but her aunt was her labor nurse who did it, so I don't know if this could happen in any other situation) and she didn't tear.
I tore with both babies and needed about 4 stitches with each. I don't know what it feels like NOT to tear, but the pain wasn't that bad. I used the numbing spray and medicine I got from the hospital and soaked in the tub when I could. I had thrombosed hemmoriods with my second pregnancy and getting them taken care of hurt worse than labor, delivery, tearing, or the pain after birth! So, really, it's bearable. I would do it all again and again to get more beautiful babies!

As far as pain control during labor, there are other options, but I would discuss it with my OB and/or read a birthing book. Also, take the birth preparation class at the hospital. They go over all of the options. One of my friends did take some type of pain medication during labor, before her epidural, and she said she felt groggy. I don't know about her baby.

Again, I look fondly back on both my pregnancies and deliveries. They were the most amazing days of my life and a true miracle to be a part of. Both were completely different. I had back labor with my first and it was extrememly painful, so I got my epidural early. I pushed with her for an hour and ended up needing a vaccuum to get her head out because she presented face up instead of the preferred face down. With my second, I was in labor for at least 24 hours, but not in much pain. It took me forever to dilate and they wouldn't do anything 'artificial' to help me along because I was one day shy of being 37 weeks (considerd full term) and my OB was concerned about the baby's lung development since he wasn't fully 37 weeks. I waited until I was almost 6 cm dialted for my epidural, and would have tried without if I hadn't been soooooooo tired from getting no sleep for more than a day! Once I got my epidural, they broke my water and he was born a few short hours later, with only about 15 minutes of pushing. He was over 8 pounds, and cried non-stop from the moment he came out. My OB was like, "well I guess there was no need to worry about his lungs!" So, no matter how much I thought about what I wanted during my labor and delivery, my kids had different ideas. And both ended up fine!
Good luck and don't let any worries you have impede having one of life's most amazing experiences!

Both of my daughters were c-section births and breastfed. I never noticed an issue with the pain medication. I typically took it after I nursed, so that the effects would be minimal by their next feeding.

please take a deep breath & relax. Childbirth can be scary & worrisome. I've been thru 4, one vaginal w/epidural/episiotomy..& still had tears, even internally. A c-section w/epidural. A miscarriage with d & c. & my final pregnancy was high-risk, with gestational diabetes & an almost miscarriage. This last delivery was natural! All 3 deliveries were also induced. Through the years, I've had many friends/family ask "how" I coped. My answer was always: "I want this baby & I will do what I need to do. I trust my Dr, the hospital, & we'll all be OK." I believe in the power of prayer, & at the age of 45, I've finally reached the point where "I can let go & trust". It is the most incredible epiphany in my life. Doesn't mean that I don't worry, can't sleep some nights....it's just that I now have the ability to recognize that I need to let go. & since I'm a control freak/like to research every issue...I consider this a "hooray" for myself. I wish you peace!

To answer your question about c-section and nursing, yes i had 3 c-sections and successfully nursed my babies just fine. do yourself a favor, if you have a c-section just take the meds that they give you. you and your baby will be fine. they take you off the meds in the hospital and then they just give you some pain killers for home. I used them for two days after (with the first one) and then i just took tylonal after that if needed. It's not as bad as everyone makes it sound. I am confident that you will do just fine with either type of delivery. My other two were the same. My third c-section was actually the easiest one and i had two other kids at home. My mom did come for a week and help out but i was really fine. Yes you are a little tired, but when you go from one child to two it is harder than two to three kids. The best advise that i have for you is to make sure that your other child is on a good bedtime schedule and follow it. Then it makes it easier for you to spend that time with your new baby and not feel guilty. My kids were really good about the whole thing. there are almost 3 years in between each one of my kids. I just had them play right where i was nursing and it seemed fine. Yes they ask questions, just explain to them that mommy is feeding the baby. You will do just fine.

I can answer your question regarding nursing after a C-section. I too was very concerned about being able to nurse if I had to have a C-section, I did not want to have one because of stories I heard about the baby being sleepy or not being able to nurse right away. Don't listen to those stories! I was able to nurse and did until my son was 12 months old. Just make sure that you fill out your birthing plan and make it known that you want to nurse and do not want the baby to have any formula. Hope this helps! Good luck, nursing is one of the best gifts you can give to your child!

Hi B.,
My suggestion would be to trust the process, we never know what can happen, I prefer natural childbirth, but I'm old school, I have 4 children, 3 boys with hefty birth weights and back then they offered something called a para cervical, it was to take the "edge" off, not eliminate all discomfort, those births were exhilarating, then with my 4th I had an epidural and if I could change anything I would skip that. It was a different feeling and to me much more difficult, plus knowing how it felt to have the epidural free births, I still feel remorse for totally numbing myself to the most beautiful experience in the world. So if you tend to get headaches after spinal taps, I would say just skip the epidural and enjoy the experience. I am by no means saying it will be without a degree of discomfort but it's for such a brief time, you won't risk the headache, your body releases endorphins and you will feel more alive and connected to your baby than ever. This is my opinion and I wanted to share it. I had an episiotomy all 4 times and had no problems with that, I don't know how times have changed, my babies were born in '76, '78, '80 & '82. With the second the Dr said he was going to see if I could deliver without one but after a few pushes, I asked him for one, I later couldn't believe I had asked for that but at the time it was perfect, the baby came right out and I was so absorbed in what was going on with him I didn't feel a thing when the doc was putting a few stitches there.
All in all, the first 3 were the most beautiful experiences I had ever had, the 4th is a pleasant memory but I don't really feel it was me there since I couldn't feel much.
I wanted to say that you can have a hundred people give you their take on this, but you will know what's right for you at the time, as far as a C section, you can't plan since you don't know if you'll be having one. I'll say a little prayer and hope that you can breast feed and that you and your healthy baby have a close connection for life.
Try not to get all of the answers, just know that it will be exactly as it's meant to be and we sometimes have surprises, but in the end we get the ultimate gift, our baby.
By the way, I'm almost 54 and am the proud Nana of an almost 2 year beautiful grandson, Max.

B., sounds like you have some real concerns. Your neurologist is definitely the person to defer to as far as whether or not you can have an epidural. I would also talk to him about laboring "natural," as far as pressures generated for your condition with labor and pushing. When you are pregnant, an anethesiologist at your delivering hospital would need to know your particular situation. IV drugs are helpful with the pain if you need them, as long as they are not given too near the end of labor or in too frequent or large amounts. I would suggest considering a doula to be with you and dad during labor. She does not take the place of dad as labor coach, but will definitely help with pain control and relaxation. My daughter delivered without anything with her doula present. I will respond privately with a name and phone number. Also, breastfeeding is accomplished EVERY day for moms having CS's. A lot of moms are having great pain control with Duramorph, a long lasting medication at your incision without being on Morphine via a pump. They are a lot more alert and in much less pain. There are also meds like Toradol that can be given in the immediate postpartum time that do not make baby sleepy. I would ask about these options. Good luck.

B., I'm sorry this is not about your question, but about your pseudo tumor. My daughter is 12. She is 5'2" tall and weighs 95 lbs. She is very athletic and intelligent. She was diagnosed with pseudo tumor last April. It went away. It has come back with a vengeance. This is just devastating. There are days she can't even get out of bed. They have her on diamox and steroids which don't seem to be helping, and they in themselves are horrible drugs. I wanted to know when and why they decided to put they shunt in for you and also are you registered with the registry for this disease? I have been researching and researching looking for answers as to why, and how we can make her better. Anything you can tell me about your condition would be helpful.

Thank you,

V.

Hey B., you should check out a Bradley class (don't sole go by the book if you get it - it really is old, out dated and not at all as good as the class). The class is good for several reason that you might enjoy. 1) the other people. We took the class twice with both my kids, the second time just to focus on the baby and us and the other couples are great, you bond with them they support you, they also ask and answer great questions. The classes at the hospital are a joke especially you already now how to diaper a baby and would like specific info other than, do what your dr. says. 2) the class empowers you to take charge or your birth plan, seek a dr. that is a support of your plan not an enemy and calms you becuase you have a well developed plan that you created based on your wants and needs.
3) it's just fun

I did not tear at all with either of my children, I (well my husband) we were both very responsible with our perinal massages. They are so worth not going thru extra issues. Tearing is better than cutting but you must put it in your birth plan and remind your dr. shortly before the baby comes out that you don't want cut. A few weeks of stretches and it's simple.

As far as getting sleeping - I did take some codine med after the first becuase my husband thought I needed some sleep (late night birth). And it did make my kiddo too sleepy to eat. However, to be honest I am so very sensitive to meds that nyquil knockes me out for about 12 hours, and as it turns out so is my son. So, I think it depends on your baby. Just stop taking it if you notice an issue, in about 8 hours or so it will be out of your system and the babies.

Good luck - it's great that you adopted. You have experience something that a lot of people don't but a birth is a wonderful experience that all who want should be able to have if possible.

Hi, B.. I don't know if you have ever considered using a birth doula, but you sound like someone who could really benefit from the knowledge and care of a birth doula as you prepare for your pregnancy and birth. If you don't know much about doulas, you might check out www.dona.org; or locally, the group to turn to is www.kdcoulas.org.
Good luck!
T.

Hi B.,

Just my experience here, it can be different for every woman though.
My fist daughter: I waited for the epidural until I couldn't wait any longer, but this was because the doctor was not ready when I had to give birth, so they insisted with the epidural because I had been in labor for too long. So I took it and then slowed down my contractions and had to have pitocyn to speed them up, the result was a very long labor and a stressed baby that needed a lot of control and even antibiotics after delivering her because of the stress she suffered, they thought that it could be an infection.....the story is too long, but to make it short, I would suggest to take a class, usually one to 4 days, just teaches you what to do and how to do it better to cope with pain and help on pushing. Read books too, it helps with stress to be prepare.
My second daughter, I went to the medical centre when I wa sa bout to dleiver, no time for epidural or anything!!! I had her in about an hour, less pain, no problems and a rapid recovery!!!! I enjoyed my delivery and also felt much better and stronger after it.
Also with my first, since I wasn't feeling everythign that I was supposed to feel, I pushed more or wrong and end up with hemorroids (ugh!) They lasted almost for a year and were more painfull than any episiotomy.
I had episiotomy with both, they usually do it just in case to avoid the risk of tearing, it is not as bad as it sounds, they give youa pain inyection so you don't feel the cut (you can sense it though) but it doesn't hurt and the recovery is very fast (less than aweek), much better than hemorroids....
To avoid the ripping and the episiotomy you can do excercises...but I did them and they cut anyway....ask your doc.
Also talk with your Doc about C section, I was very concerned about that too since many women ask for it because they think it is easier....I am always with the natural way if possible, so I asked, she told me that there is no need for a c section if I don't want it unless there is an emergency, then why worry...there is nothing you can do:)
You'll stay in the medicl unit for about 2 days and they will tell you what to do and teach you everything you need to know from nursing to taking care of you and the baby.
The most important....we all did it!!!! You can do it too!!!! Don't worry, be happy and enjoy!!!!
Mariana Abadie
www.MykidsFirst.com
www.MaiaCreations.ecrater.com

Hi B.,
Congratulations on your pregnancy! How exciting! I just wanted to share my thoughts on this subject. I too was absolutely petrified to give birth. I would get nausea just reading about the whole labor & delivery process. I know women have been doing it since the beginning of time, but still, it just doesn't seem possible for something the size of a baby coming out of an opening the size of your finger!!! Fortunately, my baby was breeched and I had to have a c-section. It is not true that you can't nurse b/c of the meds. I've had 2 c-sections and nursed both my babies very successfully. (Until they were 2 each!) The meds didn't seem to make either of them anymore sleepy than they would have been anyways. Plus, if you indeed have to have one, you will welcome the fact that they are sleeping b/c you will need your rest as well. I personally think c-sections are the ONLY way to have a baby! Just my opinion though!

hi B., I cant answer the first 3 questions, but I do know a little about the 4th. When I was in labor with my son, who is 2 1/2 now, I told myself that for no reason would I ever use the IV medication b/c I have heard that it would make the baby hard to wake up after delivery. This may be true in some cases, I dont know, but I will tell you that my labor was induced, and my contractions were so strong, I guess I asked for it and didn't even rebemer asking for it b/c I hurt so bad. It did help alot. I didn't even feel the contractions anymore. I will tell you the only thing i didn't like about it is I would fall asleep so deep, and my husband would notice I would stop breathing, so he would wake me up like every minute. It was weard; I would dream I was suffercating before he would wake me up. I had my son about 6 hours after I was given the IV, and by that time I was wide awake, and I remember everything. It had no side effects to my son what so ever. I did have an epideral later on in my labor and that I swear by. I literaly didn't feel a thing! I even had an epediosomy(cant spell) and didn't even know it. So I guess the call is yours. If I were you, I would just see how you handle it. Some people have a high tollerance of pain. I hope this helps, E. B.

I can only answer number 2....I had a c-section and I nursed and took pain pills! Heavy duty pain pills! From what I understand, not enough gets passed through breastmilk to make it harmful for the baby, and if your baby DOES get a little more sleepy than usual, then good for you....more nap time for you, too!! I didn't notice that the pain meds effected my son. Maybe they did...who knows. There was no way I wasn't going to take them...I'm a big wussy with pain!

Dear B.,

Best of wishes to you! I have a little experience, having two children, one 22 mo and the other 6 weeks. As for pain relief interventions I've had all three that you mentioned during my deliveries. With my first daughter I had a long labor and received a shot of narcotics during the earlier stages of labor and finally an epidural towards the end of labor. With my son my labor was quicker, I did not have the epidural or an IV, but relied on relaxation methods learned in a birthing class (we chose to use the Bradley Method). Despite the differences in pain relief options with the two children both had excellent Apgar scores at birth (no sign of affects from medications).
It sounds like, with your neuro history, that you will be a high-risk pregnancy. I am one also due to a head injury I had as a teenager (my pituitary was damaged and I don't make antidiuretic hormone anymore). I have a WONDERFUL maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Michael Paul, a Washington University Physician. He delivers at Missouri Baptist and has a partner who is also wonderful, Dr. Gilad Gross who will deliver at Barnes Jewish Hospital, their phone number is ###-###-####. Dr. Paul does pre-conception counseling also, which it sounds like you and your husband would benefit from obtaining to have all your questions answered. As to episiotomies and tears, often these are unavoidable, although there are some things you can do(such as perineal massage prior to delivery) I know Dr. Paul tries to avoid episiotomies unless absolutely necessary, but sometimes (as in the case of a large baby or forceps delivery) it is just safer to have one. I have had a tear with a delivery and an episiotomy and can say that both healed very nicely after a couple weeks and have not caused me any problems. I will say that it seems that many physicians are less likely to just do episiotomies than they were in my mother's day when it seemed the standard to just do them regardless.
As for the after c-section pain medication question, I have not had a c-section, but my sister did and took the pain relief medication and still nursed her daughter (who wasn't adversely affected), I took some pain medication for afterpains following the birth of my son and he is a strong nurser and wasn't took sleepy to get to know us and accustomed to nursing that first week. All babies are a little sleepy after delivery and nursing can take several days to weeks to really take off, so not assume that your pain medication is the cause of a tired baby the first couple days.
Hope this has helped. Don't be afraid to try to have a baby of your own, despite your unique situation. With the proper team of specialists on your side you can have as normal, natural and COMFORTABLE pregnancy and delivery as possible, with care catered to your specific needs.

Best Wishes!
-B.

I can respond to a few of your questions:
1. After my second c-section in March 2007, I had an epidural headache. It was like you described - a severe headache, especially when I sat upright. It was caused when the epidural spot didn't clot in my spine, and spinal fluid kept leaking out of my spine. The anesthesilogist came back to my room and did a "blood patch." Basically it was like another epidural, but they took blood from my arm and injected it into the epidural location, and the blood formed a new clot and healed the "hole." Really, it wasn't so bad! I have a friend who has had four blood patches too.
2. I had two c-sections and nursed both babies - I'm still nursing my 11 month old. Some people will say that the meds can make the baby sleepy, but baby is sleepy anyway from delivery and entry to the world. I delivered both times at Missouri Baptist, and within 20 or 30 minutes of the c-section, I nursed my babies for the first time. The nurses help you latch the baby on and the lactation consultants will help you with everything. So you don't need to worry about having a c-section and not being able to nurse. Breastfeeding is hard at the beginning, but stick with it and you'll be amazed at yourself for what your body can do. And if by chance breastfeeding doesn't work for you (I've always said it's 90% up to the baby, because just don't latch on the same or just aren't into it), then don't feel guilty. Make the best choice for you and your family, and don't keep second-guessing yourself! We all do the best we can. And if you need help, find a good lactation consultant or call the ones at the hospital again. Out in St. Peters where I live, Babymoon is a great nursing resource, and Kangaroo Kids (on Manchester Road) is another great resource.
3. I didn't deliver vaginally, but I know from friends that the tearing doesn't happen to everyone. Everything I've read says to practice your Kegel exercises (Google that and you'll find what that is) to help with tearing.
4. I can't help much with the pain control question. I had the c-sections and epidurals, then percoset/darvocet after delivery. Ask your doctors, and they'll be able to give you more info.
Good luck!

Hi B., I'll make this short and quick if I can-I was scared the first time too! Just practice a few methods of Relaxation...for delivery. That is your best bet and will help out when you need it. And all the excitement will help you get through it all! It's awesome! Asking a Midwife or a Doula will help w/ some of these questions. Join a club in your area.

1. I don't have any experience w/ the headaches- but I had 3 pregnancies and 3 epidurals and no problems.

2. I had a C section w/ my most recent delivery. I had twins and had no problems w/ nursing b/c of the pain. I was on pain meds (including ibuprofin) in the hospital, i cut back on the meds the last day I was in- but continued on the ibuprophin at home for only a few days and then I was fine! (so only maybe 1 week on the pain meds) I think they make the baby sluggish, but it's ok. With major surgery you need pain meds, no doubt. YOu may need a little pain medication, too if you do delivery vaginally and rip. (but not for long, either...depends on your situation I guess. I was fine after the hospital and, again, took a lot of ibuprofin)

3. Research your options--Look into methods of delivering natually if you are interetsted in avoiding ripping. My sis in law and friend had home births and the midwife suggested rubbing oil (not sure, but olive oil)inside the vaginal wall and doing exercises. Again, research this. Not sure how foolproof it is, but I know they didn't rip.

4. I know there are other options......look into it!

good luck!

I can only answer #3 from personal experience. I have 2 children, both born without epidurals. The first was WAY worse, but an awesome experience, and worth it enough to want to go natural again. It hurts, of course, but it's over before you know it, and all those wonderful endorphins kick in IMMEDIATELY and you forget about it! :)

I tore with my first, quite a bit, although it was all labially, so nothing really deep. Got quite a few stitches, but it all turned out ok. There was so much pain "down there", that I had to ask the dr. if I tore! He looked a little amused, since I tore quite a bit. There are stretches you can do manually in the weeks before the birth to help that tissue stretch. They kept telling me to slow down with pushing, so that I'd not tear so much, but I was in so much pain that I didn't care--I just wanted it to be over! :)

#4--there is an option for some kind of narcotic that "takes the edge off". ask your dr. for info on that one. i don't know much about it. my SIL used it with her first, and she said it was "soooo nice" because it took the edge off, but she could still plenty of what was happening . she didn't want to be paralyzed during the birth. and, her baby had no problems at all nursing (i think it can get in their systems a little and make them groggy?).

Congratulations B., you're already 10 steps ahead of the pack, just by gathering information.
As far as your questions:
Yes! An epidural can slow down labor and impede on breastfeeding by making baby sleepy.
Yes! You can definately breastfeed successfully after a C-section.
No! You don't have to have an episiotomy, (put it in your birth plan) Also, most doctors are coming to realize that a natural tear is better. If yours is infelxible on this issue I would seek another opinion. Remember, it's your body and ultimately you're the one that is in charge.
Yes! There are other options for pain control... a walking epidural, a warm bath, massage, a local anesthetic (in the vaginal region)....

My biggest advice it to read, read, read. Also, meet with a mid-wife or doula who is going to be your best advocate during the process. I am pregnant with my 2nd child and have a mid-wife this time. I really wish I had a midwife or doula the first time, but I learned and read before I was pregnant this time and am able to make more informed decisions rather than just doing what the doctor said. I am very excited about my birth and already feel more empowered!
Also, meet with your local La Leche League they will have a library with books about breastfeeding and birth (including c-section). I suggest meeting with them early in your pregnancy or even NOW! Meetings are free and open to any woman interested in breastfeeding. They will be an invaluable source for you and your family.
Here's the link to find your local group: http://www.llli.org//WebUS.html
OR
go to the home page and type in "natural birth", "cesarean", or any other topics you want to know more about....

Here are some wonderful books I would suggest:
The Birth Book by Dr. Sears
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by LLL
The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer

Good luck!! You'll do wonderful! Remember... your body, your baby, your birth!!!

K.

p.s. Sorry this is so long it's just that I've read and learned a lot in the past year on these topics. So, if you want to contact me personally and get more detail here's my email ____@____.com

I would suggest looking into the Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth and start going to a local La Leche Group--which are meetings that offer mother to mother support of breastfeeding--right now, not after the baby is born.

1. I didn't have any trouble with my epi. My legs were a little numb after delivery, but it wore off within an hour. Also, it did not slow my labor at all.

2. I didn't have a c-section, so I can't speak to that. But I do know plenty of c-section moms who were able to nurse. It shouldn't impact your nursing.

3. I have heard that perinium massage helps to prevent tearing. You do this while you're pregnant and before and during labor. Also, laboring down helps. I did it and I only had minor scrapes. Instead of pushing right away, I pushed for a while and then let the contractions come and didn't push. This helped my daughter move down on her own and allowed me to stretch slowly. Then when she was crowning I pushed again.

4. There are IV meds you can take.

You should make a preconception appointment with your doctor. That way you have a physical and know that you're healthy and you can ask your doctor all these questions and talk about any concerns you have.

Good luck!

I don't have any experience with a c-section or an epidural. Both my boys were born au natural- they came so fast that by the time I asked for an epidural and the doc took his sweet time, they were almost here! I did have IV drugs with my first and didn't like them at all. They made me feel drunk and groggy. I was so exhaused after the birth that I didn't want to hold him. I just wanted to go to sleep. I refused them with the second and had a MUCH better experience. I did tear with both. Not fun, but I didn't even realize it had happened until after the fact. The stitching is the worst part, but by then, you're so enamoured with this new creature that it falls completely into the background. It's all a wonderful experience and I hope that everything goes well for you during and after the pregnancy.

I have a biological son that is 4 1/2, an adopted daughter that is 15 months and just had another biological daughter that is 3 weeks today.
I had epi's w/ both labors and would highly recommend them. With my son I didn't get one until a hour before he was born but was given IV drugs for the pain that I did not feel was very effective. It did not make it hard at all to get over the delivery. I think the key to an epi is not to have it turned up so far that you can't feel your legs which also makes it harder to push. You can have it so that you can feel your legs, even move them, but the contractions don't hurt.
As far as ripping goes, I ripped both times but It really wasn't as painful as I thought it would be to recover.

I believe pregnancy is only what you make it. Some have more issues than others but your state of mind is what will make it what it is. I loved being pregnant even though with my second daughter I had the flu almost the entire time not counting the morning sickness or the round ligament pain- it was still wonderful! I loved giving birth and would do it again a hundred times because it was such a wonderful experience that only you can experience. I did not have any pain with my second labor because I got my epi at the beginning. There is a big difference between pain and pressure and I think alot of women think they are in pain when they feel the pressure.
I hope this helps and wish you the best of luck!

I have four beautiful children. 3 boys delevered c section and a girl delivered vaginally. I breastfed all of them unil age 1. As for c sections and pain meds,they will give you the minimum amount needed and really doesnt affect the baby. I usually only took pain meds for a couple days. Look at the big picture.Its just a few days of pain with medication and you will be able to breastfeed for as long as you need/want. good luck. Each delivery is different and exciting. ENJOY>

2. If something happens and I have to have a C-section, I really, really want to try nursing but have heard that the pain meds given to get over this major surgery make the baby really sleepy and I don't think I could handle pain of not taking meds and be able to concentrate on learning to nurse. Have any of you successfully nursed after a c-section?

Tons of us moms have nursed after our c-sections! The pain meds may make the baby sleepy, but you just undress them or do what you need to make sure they stay awake long enough to get something from nursing. I took my pain meds and continued to nurse until she weaned herself at 10 1/2 months. Good luck!

labor is not bad it depend's on how much pain you can handle when anyone ask me i tell them it did not hurt but i can tolerat a lot of pain i did have an ep during the last part of my labor that does not hurt either because you can't tell between the ep or a contraction and after the ep you can't feel anything so don't worry about tearing you will probably be able to feel the baby's head come out or the shoulder's or both but don't worry it won't hurt and the ep is hooked up to an iv so it is continuous i was already slowed down when i got mine and the ep sped thing's up for me now everyone is differant on how the ep will work and how your delivery will go but i say don't worry and enjoy your first experiance.now the breast feeding not every one will have the pain they will probably get bigger but you can use ice pack's for the pain if needed.and about the epidural it is not hard to get over they will take it out after the baby is born and that does not hurt either because you are still numb from the waist down.

hello-

i have a three week old- so the delivery is still fresh in my memory. i had a vaginal delivery with epi and iv drugs for the beginning of the labor. it was a breeze. i was so scared i had panic attacks while trying to buy baby books at borders. i even refused to take any classes.
i took the pain med percocet (sp?) in the hospital and at home. i did not really need it, but it helped me relax. i did tear a little. i did not even notice. the doc sewed me up with disolving stitches so no worries. i have friends that have recommended parenium massage to prevent tearing. i was too in denial to my kegals much less do any cookie massaging.
the iv drug they gave was statol (sp?). i am under the impression it is only good for a couple of hours and works more as a distraction than total pain killer. mine was administered in the early stage of labor before i could get the epi.
the only discomfort or wierdness i encountered was the whole first bowel movement after the delivery. i would take a stool softner for a while, especially if you are taking narcotic pain meds. it really was not that bad. you just are a little afraid more than anything.
having had a vaginal birth i was up and about even showering the next day. my sis had a c-section. a lot more recovery time. she did take pain meds for a little while and succesfully breastfed.

i have another thought- ask your doc the difference between an epi and spinal block. maybe one is easier for you than the other.

looking back on the nine months i do not miss the pregnancy itself, but i really enjoyed the birth. it was scary and so exciting! not nearly as bad as i had read or been told. i would do it again in heart beat WITH THE DRUGS :)

good luck!

If I were you I would work with a doula along with your doctor. Not only can she give you tons of info on what you've asked, but she is also there to help you with a natural childbirth. You may want to see an OB that has a low c-section ratio as they are less likely to perform them. I think with the assistance of a doula and letting your body go into labor naturally a c-section would be less likely. You'll be surprised what your body can do!

B.,

First of all, good luck on trying to get pregnant! Secondly, as a first time mom...I had all the same questions you did. I too have a back issue that made me nervous about getting an epi. For me, I just read, read, read...trying to educate myself on everything I possibly could about labor and delivery. I scheduled a consult with anesthesia to make sure I could have an epi if I wanted one. During my pregnancy, I did yoga several times a week to work on relaxation and breathing techniques. My best advise would be to just take it one day at a time...and during labor..one contraction at a time...and pray to god that you have a great nurse! I lucky enough to be able to deliver naturally...absolutely no meds, and I didn't rip or tear. I believe most of my good fortune was due to my wonderful nurse. Labor was difficult...but temporary...once you see your little one, you forget all about the pain you just endured.

Good luck!

I really suggest that you take a labor and delivery class at the hospital you plan to deliver at. That way you will know their policies and procedures. The class at North Kansas City HOspital was very helpful to me, and it was free.

To provide advice with #3, I had my baby boy 1 month ago. He is my first and my perenium did not tear and I did not need an episiotomy. I don't know if it really helped, but the last 2 months of my pregnancy I started doing perineal stretches every day in the shower. I read about it in a natural birth book, and thought anything might help. You basically hold the perinium between your thumbs and fingers and stretch the skin as far as you can without really hurting yourself.

You can easily breastfeed after a C-section. I had my son via emergency C-section 5.5 years ago and had no trouble nursing. He had no supplemental formula or pumped breast milk until he was over 9 monts old, so I'd consider that really successful! They did not, however, give me any pain meds after the c-section (I went straight from Morphine w/ the surgery to nothing). I know many moms that did take pain meds and still nursed no problem. Just talk to your doctor about it!

B.,

I'd suggest finding a labor and delivery class. There's probably one offered at the hospital where you'll deliver. You'll learn about what to expect during labor, as well as all kinds of pain-management techniques. Then if you have any other questions you'll have someone to ask. I highly recommend learning natural pain management, even if you plan on getting an epidural, for the hours of labor before you get it, and just in case it doesn't take all the way.

My second suggestion is to use a midwife. I found a practice with both OB doctors and a team of midwives under them. I was able to deliver in a hospital, with the option of pain meds. It was wonderful to have someone I knew, who was familiar with my birthing plan, to be there through the whole labor process. Being well-informed will help you have a better experience, though its true that no matter what happens, you do forget all the pain shortly after your sweet baby is born. God bless!

Can't answer a lot of your questions, but I have had two c-sections and was able to nurse afterwards - my kids were great nursers. It is true that you can't nurse immediately after a c-section, but it's very soon, probably within an hour, after they have you stitched up and back in a recovery room. Both times, it was a wonderful experience. I too was concerned about nursing when I was told I had to have a c-section, but it was absolutely not a problem. Sure, the baby is a little sleepy, but think about how exhausted a baby would be after going through a long, tough labor, so it's just something you'll work with!!
Good luck!!

I had my daughter naturally, if you will, but had an epidural as well. I can answer a couple of your questions from my experience. Before my epiduarl, they gave me some drugs, not sure what it was, through my IV and it put me right to sleep and relaxed me. It was wonderful!!! Also, I did tear and had a episiotomy after having her and because of the epidural, I would not have known it. I didn't feel that I torn until after everything wore off, but again, they gave me pain medication and it was sore for a few days but honestly, once I had her, I didn't even think about that. I had a severity 2 tear when I had her. Everything is fine now, 2 1/2 yrs later!!!

It seems like your fears are all based on traditional hospital births with a lot of medical intervention. Have you considered delivering at a birthing center? There is a great one in Topeka. Midwives can also deliver at hospitals in KC. If I were you I'd talk to some midwives about the fears you're having. I did not have any pain meds with either of my childen's births, and if I can do it anyone can! It was painful, but their births were the best days of my life.

B., there are drugs that can take the edge off to avoid an epidural. I did not have an epidural with either of my boys. Know that if you choose an epidural your chances of having a c-section are quiet a bit higher. I had a c-section with my first child because I stopped dialating after 27 hours of labor. Recovery was not good to put it mildly. I did nurse my son after that with a lot of nipple soreness. We both slept a lot but newborns sleep a lot. I would nurse on his demand & sleep when I could. He was gaining weight & going to the bathroom like he should. My second child was a VBAC & I had a half shot of nubaine (sp) about 7 hours of labor (8 cm), 3 hours before delivery. It slowed my labor down a little but it mainly spaced my contractions apart to 5 or 6 minutes. I was able to sleep in between them. I felt all the contractions but the rest in between helped a lot. After a couple hours maybe I was ready to start pushing. I pushed for 45 min. My son was wide awake for 3 hours after delivery so apparently it wasn't enough to affect him. I did tear a little but my the pain is so great elsewhere that you don't even feel it. The best advice I can give is to pray & to try to go as natural as possible. Your body knows what to do, your body was made to have babies. Good Luck.

I'm only able to comment on the episiotomy portion of question. I had a 3rd degree episiotomy (I was cut from one hole to the next!) because my son weighed almost 10 pounds. I don't think there is anything you can do to prevent one, but I may be wrong. My sister didn't have an episiotomy and she tore while giving birth. I think it's better to have an episiotomy than to tear on your own. I had an extremely difficult time sitting down for a while, but with a newborn and by then 3-year-old, I think that will be the least of your worries! Good luck. Sounds like you have a lot of questions to be answered. I know the other moms will come through :)

B.,
I did not have an epidural because I have a similar problem. I did have pain medication though my IV and it did not harm my daughter. The episiotomy was no big deal. The Dr. stitched it after the birth and my husband said it was no different to him.
My sister-in-law had to have a C-section and nursed my nephew. There are so many different pain meds. that can be used that it doesn't affect the baby. They are both happy and healthy.

Talk to your Dr. about your concerns. They do this everyday and give you more details to make you feel more secure in your decisions.

I had all 3 of my kids by c-section and breast-fed them just fine. Unless you have serious complications the pain meds vary. My first one I had a lot of complications and had strong pain meds first week then percocet. 2nd one just had tylenol for pain and 3rd one had percocet. The babies were fine and I breastfed them right away. Watch spicy foods though as they tend to cause gas and tummy aches for your baby.

1. I had epidurals with both of my deliveries (at 12 hour labor and a 5 hour labor) and no problems at all. Everything was back to normal quickly and easily after delivery. As far as slowing down labor, they won't give it to you until you've progressed to a certain point and although it seems I've heard stories about it slowing down some labors, they often will give a little dose of pitocen to make up for that. Mine did not seem to be affected by the epideral; the only affect was pain relief and that was extremely welcome!!

2. No experience there.

3. You can talk to your dr. about it. Most don't do an episiotomy automatically, they wait and see how it looks like things will go. But an episiotomy is much better than a tear. It's less painful, easier to stitch up their straight cut than to repair a tear, and if you tear on your own there's a higher chance of permanent/more severe damage. They say some massaging and stretching in the early parts of labor may help, but it's painful.

4. You can do IV drugs, but they don't last long and in my experience just make you feel drugged and relaxed instead of blocking most of the pain while being alert and feeling normal like an epidural. And I'm not sure what they let you have as it gets closer to actual delivery. I had fentanyl before being able to get the epidural and I just felt completely drunk and sleepy. Less pain, but out of it. Fentanyl only lasts about an hour in your system and each time they dose you it's less and less effective. I had it twice and the second time didn't work nearly as well or last nearly as long. The epidural was heaven after that!!

Good luck!

I have had 3 C-sections. I did not have such major pain with any of them that I was unable to handle the pain with more than Tylenol. My advice to you, if you have a C-section, is to wait and see how bad the pain is. Many of the women I've talked to agree that after about the first day (when the baby will not really want to nurse, nor get much), Tylenol worked to get the pain to a level that was more than manageable.

I am a labor and delivery nurse so I should be able to give you some info.
1. If you get headaches from past spinal taps, you may get a headache afterwards. I have had some moms suffer from this. However, an epidural is different from a spinal tap so you need to ask an anesthesiologist about this. Epidurals do usually slow labor down, however there are medications we can use to speed labor up. I had an epidural and did not need any further interventions for labor. Every labor is different. You need to get these specific information from the right docs. Don't hesistate
2. You can DEFINITELY nurse after a c-section. Every hospital has its own policy. We give c-section moms scheduled motrin, however it is up to them if they want vicodin. If you just take SOME vicodin (narcotics) initially when the pain is worst, it should not affect the baby. You have to use caution with narcotics. If the pain is too bad and you need narcotics, then supplement the baby with formula and pump to keep your breastmilk supply. Once motrin is enough to manage your pain, resume to nursing.
3. Ask the doc or midwife to do perineal massages during pushing. That should significantly reduce the chance of tearing. It helps stretch and thin the perineal tissue so it is more flexible.
4. You can get IV pain meds. Our hospital uses fentanyl which is great. It is fast acting, but also leaves your system quickly too. Push for this if you don't want an epidural. But wait until you absolutely need it, b/c the first dose is always the most potent. Get in the jacuzzi tub too.

Research the internet for labor ideas, and ask ask ask questions for your docs, especially since you do have a medical history. Good luck!

I have four children, all of which were born c-section and all of which were nursed, my girls for 11mths and my twin boys for 4mths. It is VERY possible to get pain meds that help you and do not bother your baby. Having c-sections, I always had the epidural b/c you have to LOL! The other option to that is being put all the way under and usually they do not allow the husband to be in the delivery b/c they need to get the baby out asap as the meds that put you in that "sleep" are not good for the baby. Other than that, I don't have much else to offer you, except GOOD LUCK! and God Bless :)

Hello,
I can not tell you what to do but I can give you a little insite to my 3 deliveries. With my first child I had a nice little plan I wanted this and didn't want that....yeah plans are nice but be prepaired to toss them out the window!! With all of my children I had a c-section, the first one of course was not in the plan. They give you something that I didn't find out until my 3rd preg that keeps you from getting sick, throwing up sick, right after they deliver the baby in a c-section. I always got real shaky after my first 2 births and thought it was just a reaction to the epid. While in the hospital with my 3rd and being really sick they gave me some med, found out the really hard way that I am alergic to it. It made me prett much feel like I wanted to jump out the window and I kept shaking. Of course when I delivered my 3rd child I said oh no to that med and took the barf pan. I actually didn't get sick and didn't have shakes and it was the best!! I don't know how to tell you if you would be alergic to that med or not but I sure wouldn't take the chance. I will take barfing over shaking for hours any day of the week...especially when you want to beable to hold your child and you can't really if you think you might drop it cause you are shaking. As far as a pain med that they give you, they will give you something that is okay to take if you plan to breastfeed. As far as the pain, it all washes away the first time they put that cute little baby in your arms. But I am sure you already know that with having a 2 year old. Even though you didn't labor and deliver for the child in a hospital I am sure there were things you had to overcome, papers you had to fill out...all if it was worth it when they placed that child in your arms.
Goodluck
sorry if this is a little choppy I was giving my 4 year old a bath in between typing.
N.

I had an epi with my first child, I had the shakes so bad after ward that I was afraid to hold her. She was not sleepy and she did not would not nurse when I tried. She in fact only nursed for 3 months she liked the bottle better however did not like formula. It did slow down my labor. With my decond one I had a C-section, I did not think that he was any sleepier than my first. I also believe that they used the same meds on my for both of my epi. I did not even try and nurse my son after he was born, I just did not feel the need to and now he is 16 months old and I am trying to ween him. Ripping and tearing are natual. My doctor would not cut he prefered that I ripped, which I did. If I was to become pregnant again I would have another c-section I thought it was much better for me even though I had some problems with becomming so hot that I thought that I was going to pass out after they gave me the epi and I have an allergy to adhesives, my back was one big blister after they took the epi out the second day. If I have to ever have an epi for anything again they can not use the adhesive that they usually use or I can not have one. I did not realize how bad my back was till the epi wore off. I do recall having a small reaction to the same stuff when I had my first but since the adhesive was not left on for two days it was not so bad. IO hope this answered some of your questions.
L.

B.,
I had a baby 3 months ago and due to back surgery I had in 1999 I could not have an epidural. I was scared prior to delivery because I didn't know how bad the pain would be and I was concerned about not knowing if I could do it without an epidural. Well, I did it! They did give me an IV pain medication, but I would suggest you not use it. It did not "take the edge off" like they told me it would and it just made me sleepy...I could hardly keep my eyes open. My contractions were strong and being sleepy just made things worse. I just concentrated on my breathing and with my husbands help I delieverd my son naturally. Because I didn't have an epidural my body did a lot of the pushing itself...an epidural can sometimes make it hard to push because you can't feel anything. The best feeling in the world was that final push when my son came out...it is a feeling I will never forget! I did tear, but because of everything that was going on down there I couldn't feel it. I thought that I hadn't torn, but then the doctor said I did. Good luck and just remember, Epidurals are over rated! =) J.

Hey B., I can tell you that I have had three kids, all three were c-sections and all three were breastfed. I am 37 and my kids are 13, 10, 8 (so this was a while back) But I never had any trouble with the breastfeeding experience. If the meds make them sleepy that's not a big deal, when their hungry they'll wake up. You both will need rest after the birthing process and you will find your grove together. There are also ways to wake them up enough to eat, for example don't swaddle them so that they are a snug little bug until their done eating, tickle their feet and sides, keep talking to them while moving their arms or legs. I even had one we would strip down to diaper with just a light blanket to feed and then redress when their were done. In my experience it wasn't the meds that made them sleepy; it was the sweet, warm snuggling with mom that made them sleep. Being sleepy while they eat is not a bad thing. It makes for a sweet time to snuggle. Just don't let it frustrate you too much, if they are that sleepy and none of the little tricks work, let them sleep. They will not starve themselves. When they are hungry they will eat. Trust me.
-M. (mother of three)

Hi B.,

I have very successfully nursed for 9 months exclusively following a c-section. The pain meds did make my daughter sleepy but her first nursing was great and we kept her awake while she nursed by touching her with a very cold wash cloth. Once I was off the morphine drip, which was 24 hours after my c-section the oral meds didn't make her as sleepy and she has been a great nurser ever since. I had more trouble with my first daughter who was a vaginal delivery being a sleepy baby than my c-section girl. (and my c-section was a wonderful experience and the recovery was pretty easy)

I was dead set against an episiotomy but wish I had. They let me tear with my first daughter who is now 2 1/2 and I STILL have pain. Not to say that you may not have complications from the episiotomy but it's something to consider. I nice clean cut is much easier to repair than a jagged tear.

You can have IV meds during labor, I don't know much about them. I do know someone who went that route and she was able to still get up and move around during labor. With an epidural you are confined to bed. I wish I could have been up walking around, labor progresses much faster.

Hope this helps!

As for the episiotomy, I've done it both ways. This is just my experience, but when I had one with my first, it was much more painful to recover from than with my second where I did not.

I did have what they called a little "skid mark" tear with my second kiddo, but it was healed in no time compared to the episiotomy and much less uncomfortable. My second hospital also used ice bags for the peritonial area and it was wonderful for the pain - wiped it out pretty completely.

If I was doing it over, no episiotomy for me.

And your doctor will generally respect your wishes if you tell him or her you don't want one and put it in the birthing plan.

I had 2 csections, and look, it hurts. Get the drugs, let the baby sleep. I nursed and believe me she was up and at 'em when it was time to eat. I didn't have a vaginal delivery. But I tried for 36 hrs, and I think the best you can do in your "birth plan" is do stretches, you can roll around on the ball, but it is going to happen if it is going to happen. You cannot control how your body or your baby will respond. I didn't want drugs either, I don 't have a physical limitation other than being stubborn. Around 27 hrs, the nurse told me I was insane, and take the drugs. Best advice anyone ever had. You will hear over the coarse of this amazing adventure you are trying to embark upon that everyone is different, and they are. I would suggest a book called Baby Wise. The woman that suggested it to me was a stranger but if I ever see her again I will kiss her. It made my life some much easier

Hi there,
I had an emergency C-Section after 13 hours of labor and 2 hours of pushing. I did breastfeed right away and did for 6 months. I was a little concerned about the pain pills but they were definately needed. The doctor went in to detail that the pills would not affect the baby. My daughter is almost 2 and 1/2 and she is pretty smart. So I wouldn't worry about breatfeeding and pain pills. The surgery was not bad , I just was not prepared for it so we were a little scared . I'm actually set up for another c-section with our second daughter on May 12th. The incision is below the bikini line and it's soo small. I was out walking a mile exactly 1 week later. Good luck!!!!!!

Well I had an epi. with my first baby. I got a headache but after so much needed rest and tylenol my headache was gone. Breastfeeding I have no advice because I didnt do it. The tearing when having a child... my doctor told me to massage the area up until you go into labor. They will also massage your area while you are pushing the baby out to help aid your stretching. My docotor didnt beleive in cutting. He alsways said if I dont cut and let you try yourself and you tear I still have to stitch you. But if I let you try and you dont tear then you have no stitches. So it is always up tp your doctor. But I tore with both my kids. My tears were not even close to being as bad as if they would have cut me and then repaired it.

B.,
I hope I can help with some of your concerns. You can get severe headaches after an epi, but I don't think they are very common. With my first son I was so terrified of labor/and delivery I was planning out the epi before I even conceived. I have several health problems myself and I am in a lot of pain. The best advice my OB gave me was to RELAX let your body be a uterus for a day and go with it. Labor and delivery was easy for me. (Yes, I am rare) but I think because I dealt with pain frequently it wasn't a shock to my body.
2. Pain meds with nursing. I took pain meds with both boys. My first taking vicodin it did affect my son he was a little sleepy (but newborns sleep a lot anyway)but it was constipation with him that had me stop nursing. However, with my second (21 months old now) I was taking oxycodone and a fairly good amount (health reasons) and nursed him till he was 8 months and he weaned himself. I think you have to be in tune with your body and your baby and every child will respond differently. If it would effect the baby you can stop the meds or stop nursing.
3. I don't know if there is anyway to prevent it you could ask your ob. but ripping is worse than the episodomy. I have had one with epi and one with out. I didn't know either time until way after the fact and all the excitemtent was over. If you keep it clean and ice it constantly it heals pretty quick. They teach you all that in the hospital.
4. I don't know the answer to that but your ob could answer you. HONESTLY, the more you relax and tell yourself this is a natural process women do this all the time with nothing in third world countries and survive to tell about it. My body knows what to do. If you can convince your brain of this it can be a pleasant experience. Don't forget to get a mirror and watch the birth. TRUELY AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!!! GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS! S.

I am a mother of two and successfully breastfed both for over a year after two C-sections; I did take the pain medicine for the first week or two which I feel was necessary, and it was ordered and approved by the doctor/nursing staff at a St. Louis hospital without contraindication. Good luck with your decision.

Hi B.,
Congrats on this new adventure! I had emergency c-section on both my girls, my first attempt at natural delivery ended after almost three days of labor and I did breastfeed. It does make the baby tired but its not that difficult as far as you and baby being tired. Also I tried to go all natural with the delivery and not have an epideral and yes there is other drugs that help the pain not be unbearable just through IV, demeral I think is one of them. Talk to your dr. they have so much to offer now in the way of drugs and what not. Good luck!

God bless, J. H.

I have had two babies and had an epidural with the first, and wanted an epidural for the second but I dialated to fast (I was induced) She was putting the epidural in while I was having contractions and when I laid down I had the nurse checked me I was fully dialated. So I did the second with no pain meds. If I were ever to have another baby I would not get an epidural. The pain was not bad enough to warrant the headache, ect after the second baby. I did tear a little for the first baby, none for the second delivery. Above all you have to know what you would be most comfortable with, but be flexible. You don't always get what you want, and you have to be OK with that. That works for everything though, not just labor and delivery.

Good Luck!!!

Virginia

You need the book "What to Expect When You're Expecting". This book answers all those questions. Talk to your doctor about your shunt. I have a back fusion in the same spot as the epidural goes and I had a spinal block. It was wonderful and wore off in about 4 hours. I had an epidural the second time and I actually liked the spinal block better. I have heard that the IV drugs make you loopy and was advised against them by my cousin, so I have no personal experience there. There is also local anesthesia (sp?) as well. Just talk to your doctor. You sound terrified. Just remember that billions of women have done this and have all survived. The majority of women went back and did it again b/c it is sooooo worth it. Every lasting mark on your body (b/c your body will never be the same after giving life to someone else) is so worth it. A coworker once described being pregnant as being on a the way up before a drop on a rollercoaster. The closer you get the more you wonder why you didn't take the chicken exit. Then after the drop, you know why you did it - it all makes sense. Good luck. Get the book and ask your doc. I think you'll feel better.

Hi B.~
I am a labor nurse and feel I can answer many of your questions. #1 The epidural is placed in the epidural space which is a little bit different than getting a spinal tap. It only tends to give a spinal headache if accidentally reaching the cerebralspinal space. The chances of this happening are about 3-5%. If you are especially sensitive it may be a bit higher, but the anesthetist will place a blood patch and that will take care of the headache instantly. The epidural will not necessarily slow down labor and if it does a low dose amt of pitocin can speed it back up. The beauty of this is that you already have the epidural, so you won't feel the added pitocin. You also wouldn't actually get the headache (if you were to get one) until after delivery after the epidural catheter is pulled.
#2 The meds we give for cesarean sections will have absolutely no effects on your ability to breastfeed or the sleepiness of your baby. I personally have had 4 c-sections and have breastfed each of my kids until they were 2years old. We give duramorph during the surgery which is regionally placed and will have no effect on baby. After the surgery when you are taking meds by mouth they will give you the option of Ibuprofen and/or a low dose narcotic like tylenol #3 or vicodin. Studies have proven that less than 1% of these meds will enter breast milk. Now, if you have a sleepy baby right off the bat it is usually due to the personality of the baby and not the c-section. Babies will enter a 24 hour sleepy cycle aprox. 2 hours after birth and it will be hard for many babies to be woken to nurse. If you work with your nurses and lactation consultants at the hospital, you should do just fine. Take advantage of the first two very alert hours after delivery to initiate breastfeeding.
#3 most OB docs these days will NOT perform an episiotomy unless absoluteley necessary. They will let you naturally tear on your own. At the point that either event would happen, you would be numb from your perineum stretching so much that naturally you will not feel either. Sometimes the doc will apply a bit of lidocaine to the area to make sure you don't feel it. After delivery, if you tear, jacuzzi baths are important to encourage circulation and healing as well as keeping the area clean and dry.
#4 You can get get IV pain relief as well. It only takes the edge off so you can cope w/contractions better. It really can help, but usually after your 3rd dose it stops working as well because your body gets used to it. The option is usually Stadol or Nubain. It is advised not to get any more doses after you are 8-9 centimeters dilated because then you risk respiratory depression and excessive sleepiness of the newborn.
As for your medical condition. If your problem is high enough up the spine then most anesthetists will be able to place your epidural. I have seen epidurals placed in women who have rods in their spine before.
Don't get too anxious, pregnancy is one of the most special times in a woman's life. Your concerns are very valid but, most of the things you are worried about are simple to take care of. !! Happy baby making!! Hope this info helps.

I can't really speak to some of your questions as I had a c-section, but I had no problems nursing after the c-section. If you haven't taken a breastfeeding class, I would highly suggest taking one. Also, you can ask for a lactation consultant to come in to make sure that nursing is going okay and give suggestions. Best wishes!

I can't speak to all of your questions but I can tell you that I had my daughter c-section and started nursing her (successfully) as soon as they brought me back to my room. The surgery in no way impaired my ability to nurse. I ws given demerol during the procdure and it didn't sem to effect my child at all. Everything worked out very well.

Hi B..
I am a mother of 4. First one I had at the Hospital. The rest I had at home with my family and a midwife.
Yes any pain meds. slow down labor.
The intense pain for me was barible because I knew it would only be for a short amount of time then I would see my baby.
If you set up on a birthing chair of atleast set up on the edge of the bed, you may not need the episiotomy. You can also ask the nurse to use oil and a hot pack on you to relax your muscles and help the baby to slide right out. By letting you set up and letting gravity do its job, plus the oil, you should not tear.
Even if you need to have a C section, you should still beable to breastfeed. It might take the baby a little longer to figure it out but still beable to feed baby naturaly.
Hope this helps. J. B

I have had 2 c-sectins and have nursed both my girls. Yes, they usually give you percocet and it does make the baby sleepier but it is not harmful for them. The more in shape you are the faster you heal after a c-section. My 2nd child was planning on being natural and I was scared to death! I'm happy we had another c-section really but I'm probably the only one:) Pregnancy is awesome and just think of the end result, it makes you forget about the pain part. Good luck to you, don't worry, pregnancy and childbirth is the best:)

Try taking a lamaze class they can answer all your questions and prepare you for what lies ahead. I was suppose to have an epidural,and some other kind of block.due to the fact I was getting my tubes tied after my c-section.I have the psuedo tumor as well but no shunt. spinal taps scare me to death and so did the thought of an epi.I opted to be knocked completely out. b/c they couldn't even get an IV started with several people trying.I will say I wish I had not made that choice. I was so drowsy I didnt enjoy the birth of my only child.I did breast feed though. but dont remember it. but saw the video. don't make the same mistake I made.best of luck!

B.,

Take a deep breath and relax. I am a Labor and Delivery nurse and women do this everyday =) And they do it again and again! But your concerns and emotions are normal.
First of all, you are always at risk of getting a spinal headache if they were to get the epidural in a vein. This is very rare but can be treated with a blood patch if you get one. I don't even see this happen on a monthly basis. In fact it has been months since I have seen a spinal headache.

Second, the meds we give you for pain are all safe for br feeding. They are the same meds we give mom's who have a vaginal birth with pain as well. We encourage pain meds so that you can feel good to take care of your new baby. There is no reason you can't nurse
after a c/s.

As for tearing vs episiotomy. Your L&D nurse can give you perineal massage and warm wash cloths on your peineum while pushing. This helps, but that doesn't mean you won't tear or have an episiotomy as well. Quite frankly, if you have a 8-9 lb baby come out of a small hole........

Next, birth plan...... don't do it!!!!!!!!! Women that come in saying they only want this and that done seem to always wind up with just the opposite. It seems to be a jinx most of the time. Take classes, prepare yourself for labor and just go with the flow. We look out for you best interest and do this every day. If there is something you really desire to have or not to have just talk to your doctor at the office and your delivery nurse on d-day.

Finally, pain in labor. You can walk, get on the birthing ball, jacuzzi etc for a natural birth. If the pain is getting to bad you can get IV pain meds if you aren't too close to delivery. If you are 8 cm or above it isn't safe because it can make the baby sleepy at delivery and not want to breath normally. If for some reason you do delivery quickly after pain meds though and your baby is having problems, there is a drug that we can give to reverse the effects of the pain meds in your baby. After one or two doses of iv pain meds they aren't too effective and your next step if you aren't close to delivery would be the epidural. Good luck and enjoy the ride!!!!!!