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Epidural advice

Really would like some advice. In 2009 I was in an accident that left me with a pinched nerve in my lower back. It can litterally cripple me when it acts up or swells. I am terrified of the thought of an epidural and the possibility of side effects left behind from it. I don't know what my pain tolerance is really like; I have never broke a bone or anything to have an idea of how to handle it. Im curious to know if anyone has gone without an epidural, any advice on how to get through contractions or simply your advice would be much appreciated. FTM 16 weeks along.
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Avatar universal
It didn't numb me the shot in my leg, i mean it made things easier but i still felt alot, my first was born with her hand on her face too so i needed stitches but then they gave me an injection of local anaesthetic. I could still walk around though in labour x
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Avatar universal
Thank you so much everyone for your advice! I truly appreciate it!
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7677085 tn?1395374075
I've had two non epidural births and then a spinal (which is similar to an epidural) for a surgery following my daughter's birth two weeks ago, and I will never get a spinal or an epidural again. I'd much rather go through unmedicated.
Honestly, in the moment, labor feels like it will never end. The contractions are so intense and they are all you can think about in the moment. But it's really not that much time compared to the rest of your life. If you can remember that it really does end, that's half the battle. I really would recommend hiring a doula to help you through if you'd like to go unmedicated.
At the very least, check out "Your Best Birth", by Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein, or just watch the documentary "The Business of Being Born". If you have a Facebook, check out birth without fear and the positive birth movement (I believe both also have independent websites if you don't do fb). Good luck mama and congrats on your pregnancy!
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Avatar universal
I have arthritis in my back
And I was scared to get the epidural
But I ended up caving in after I asked my doctor about it while I was in labor
He said I'll be fine.
I'm 3 weeks pp. And my back hurts here and there but nothing I can't handle.
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Avatar universal
IV pain killers won't numb you like an epidural it will just help manage the pain. Idk what exact pain killer they will give you but Ive had morphine and dilaudid during my last pregnancy. But you can get a more in depth and accurate explanation from your doctor. I'd voice my concerns to them and together you guys can build a birth plan you feel comfortable with. You don't always get cut or tear during labor. And everyone has a different reaction on labor but yes it does suck!
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Avatar universal
The shot in the leg and the IV you both suggested; do these numb you or a muscle relaxer for pain? I know that the doctor will cut you and stich you so you do not tear, do these keep you from feeling this? And in your honest opinion do you think labor is truly as bad as it as lead on?
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Avatar universal
I have had two major back surgeries due to scholiosis and my last epidural left me not being able to walk for 2 weeks... If you have issues with your back I wouldn't.. I'm not getting it this time
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Avatar universal
You can always use and intravenous pain killer when in labor. (Through an IV) if that is something your Interested in let your doctor know and they can tell you what kind of pain killers you can use during labor. You can also look into baby hypnotics its supposed to help get hour mind into a state of peace so you don't fix on the pain...also there's accupressure for you and your significant other you could try.
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Avatar universal
Bump is to bump up the post :') and i didn't get the epidural cause i was too far along so i had pethidine and that just went in my leg (: I'd getting it again with my second if i feel the need. I'm super scared of epidurals
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Avatar universal
I'm new to this... what does bump mean?
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Avatar universal
Bump
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Avatar universal
Breathing techniques and having something to focus on while in hard labor is what will get you through....
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