Back problems and anaesthesia / epidurals

[Lazy Leo]

I have a damaged vertebrae in my back from a car accident 10 yrs ago. The second bottom vertebrae sits at an angle and squashes the disc that sits between it and the bottom vertebrae (at least that's how it was explained to me)

When I went to my booking in appt when she was going through the health questions i did mention it and that i was worried about the extra weight on it towards the end of the pregnancy.

Today I got an appointment in to see the anaethsitist at 30 wks to discuss this before I go into labour. This was never mentioned at the booking in appt and it has never even entered my head in the past but do you think this will affect my ability to have an epidural? If I can't will I end up with a section, but don't they need to do an epi to section you? I'm confused and a little concerned. Any thoughts would be welcomed.

 

[elly75]

Didn't want to read and run.

The anaethsitist would probably be able to give you the best answers but to be honest, I'm not too sure. Perhaps some other folks who will post a message might know more.

 

[amylw1]

dont know if it will affect you or not. but they can do a c-sec via general. i have a back problem (docs dont know what it is) and i have made it quite clear on my notes i DONT want an epidural as i know this will make my back worse.

 

[marley2580]

I had a spinal block for my c-section as 1. it was an emergency and 2. I didn't want an epidural.

 

[Nibblenic]

Hi hun, obviously the consultant will be able to tell you better.
But from what youve described it not only shouldnt be a problem as your trouble is lower than they put an epi in, between you L1 - L3 but epidurals are only an issue if you have 'teathering' on ur spine. Which means your cord has become attached

I saw the anethnitist at 34 weeks, and found the appointment very reasuring

I have degeneragtie disc disease and spinbiffida on my L5 veritbre and altough i had to have an MRI to confirm that an epi as possible at 36 weeks, it is and all is well.

I wouldnt worry one bit.
And if you ever want to Pm me and ask anything about exercises that ive found help your back etc feel free. as i have to admit mines been pretty bad since 6 months, but everyone is different

 

[Mumof42009]

Hi

I had rta when i was 10 and ended up with rods, pins in my back ive had 3 emergency c-sections now and had epiduals with the last 2 i have limited space between the sections in my back but they still managed to do it have a good chat with them when you go and explore you options xx

 

[Lazy Leo]

Thanks Nibblenic & Bumpn3gals, your situations both sound serious and you've managed to get through ok. I know the dr will be able to tell me better but the appointment isn't booked till 21st Aug when I'm 30 weeks which is a long way off yet! I think it's just the fact that it hadn't crossed my mind and the nurse didn't mention it at the booking in appt. It just arrived in the post this morning and I've been forced to think about it.
Thank you all for your replies, they have definately helped reassure me. I will pm you about those excercises Nibblenic

 

[Mumof42009]

I would speak to your consultant ask if you can get it brought forward a little bit at least then you can plan everything. Have you got to have c-section? xx

 

[Lazy Leo]

truly don't know. It's the one thing I've always said I don't want unless baby is in real distress. I guess I won't know until I speak to the MW. Before 10am this morning it hadn't even entered my head that I may not be able to get an epidural and tbh nothing yet suggests I won't. It's just natural worry I guess.