Epidurals

[xHx]

I had an epidural because I was induced and the contractions given via the drip were extremely painful. I was glad I had it in the end as I ended up having an emergency C-section so it made that process easier! The epidural itself was great, I had one where I could control the amount of pain relief. The lady who put it in was great as well - she made me suck gas and air through the process so I just found the whole thing hysterically funny!!! I had said prior to the induction that I wanted to see if I could do it without but I certainly didn't feel a failure when I had it, I joked with my midwife that I was a wuss but she said not to be silly and that a lot of women have the epidural put in prior to the drip being started! At least I gave it a good few hours!!!

Having said all that, if you are not expecting a difficult birth and you think you will feel more relaxed and comfortable at the birthing centre then go for it.....gas and air is an amazing thing!!! x

 

[Aidan's Mummy]

I was dead set against the eipdural and i told OH even if i was begging for one don't let them give me it. BUT being on the drip to get my contractions going i had no gradual build up and they contractions just came thick and fast and strong very quickly and in the end i started to go into shock (shaking and everything, don't be scared if you have to have the drip though this is just my personal experience and you may have a higher pain thresh hold than me). In the end i was begging for one as i was so tired )(having not slept proeprly for days) and when they came and did it, it didnt hurt at all and afterward it was amazing. I couldnt feel a thing. I was in heaven and i even maged to sleep for a couple of hours whilst still having major contractions ( so my OH tells me)


At the end of the day hun it is what you feel is best for you personally. The only advice i can give is have an open mind and try and base your descion on ho you really feel.

Good luck hunni
xx

 

[isil]

I'd say if you're induced, go for the main hospital but if not, I'd give it a go at the midwife led centre. They can always transfer you if you start to need more help. Don't dismiss pethidine either, some people think it's wonderful!

I was induced and they gave me an epidural which failed. I would have given anything to have one that worked!

 

[ryder]

LOL I went into labour naturally and the contractions came on fast, right from the beginning of labour they were only a few minutes apart.

 

[Rachiebaby24]

I didnt have one but then i had a short birth (4 and a half hours) BUT i am seriously the biggest wimp ever (i cry when i have a smear!!) I must say that although it was the WORST pain ever it was bearable and i did enjoy feeling her come out. Weird but AMAZING! I used gas and air for the last hour and it helped!

I would advise keeping an open mind. You dont know how your labour will be, how long or anything. When I got to the hospital i was 8cms so wouldnt be able to have had one even if i wanted so you should just see how you do. You may cope really well and not even think of one!