Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

My plan is to try and deliver naturally being I am a nervous wreck about the thought of someone putting a needle in my spin. However, I could always wind up changing my mind plus I want to think about my options in the case I may need a c-section. I know what an epidural is, but am not 100% familiar with a spinal block, just that it is a one time shot in your spine. Which is better or has the least amnt of risk?

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

Not sure of the amount of risk with each, but I had an epidural. The difference between the 2 is where the medicine is injected. I had to have an emergency section and the doc said he wanted a spinal. He said he did not want to wait for the epi. When the anesthesiologist came he said that he can get an epi in fast and get it working quickly, so that is what he would prefer to do, so that is what I had. I have no complaints. From the reaction of the anes. I would think the epi is safer.

Message edited 3/18/2007 3:17:51 AM.

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I had scoliosis surgery so I am petrified of people sticking something in my back. I vowed to go all natural when the time comes. I think that part of child birth is the most frightening for me.

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I had an emergency c-section and I had a spinal. I had no problems

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

spinal b/c c-section

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I had the spinal due to c-section

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I am glad to hear they can do a spinal if it is an emergency c-section. I thought they would have to knock me out completely, which scares me more, plus I want to be awake to see him as soon as he is born.

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

there was no way I was doing it without an epi...and there is no way I'm doing it this time around without one....

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

spinal because of c-section...I remember thinking that it didn't hurt at all! Ask me why Im scared of getting it again!

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I had an epidural and a spinal.

Re: Did you have an epidural or spinal block?

I was terrified too. I have 2 herniated discs and even the thought of anyone touching my spine skeeves me out. Howeve I had a c-section, so spinal it was. I cried from fear but not pain and the nurses were all very reassuring. I am still terrified of it, for this one too.

Good luck.