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Epidural or knock out?
Added: 1191 days ago.
Added by: vikki
Section: General.
Status: This question is Closed. (Questions will be closed after 10 days.)


Is there anyone that has chosen to be completely knocked out with a c-sec? It looks like I have to have a c-sec` due to a VASA PREVIA ( NOT THRILLED ABOUT THAT BUT ANYTHING FOR A SAFE DELIVERY) but I have a `dicky` spine and have BIG concerns about an epidural. I do feel that I will be cheated from seeing my baby as soon as it`s born but am also afraid of going through some really BAD stuff with the needle in my back. ANy comments? I know that I have to deal with what ever is to be, is to be. I`m just feeling really upset at the moment. :-(

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Harpchick - 1189 days ago Rating: 0 (0 votes) Discussing your concerns with your anesthesiologist ahead of time should help you make up your mind. With your medical records in hand, they should be able to tell you what they predict your success rate with an epidural would be. For what it's worth, my spine is a train wreck (I have spondylolisthesis with spinal instability and double sciatic pinch, two badly deteriorated disks, spinal arthritis, and more) and I can still have safe and effective epidurals. Only your anesthesiologist can speak effectively to your particular medical case, but start with that. Do bear in mind that, in most cases, they can go ahead on the day and try and epidural to see how well it works; they can then use the general as Plan B.

1sttimemum2twins - 1191 days ago Rating: 0 (0 votes) I think if your anaesthetists thinks you are able to have an epidural without any problems then I would go for that option. I have been told by midwives that being knocked out completely means you not only miss the birth but sometimes you are pretty out of it for a few days which means your baby may not be able to even stay in your room if your not up to caring for it. If, however they think you will have problems with an epi then definitely get knocked out. Maybe you should discuss with them which will be the faster recovery given your situation. I didn't meet with my anaesthetist till the night before so you should think about contacting yours before hand it discuss it. He said he may have trouble getting mine in after he felt my spine, so of course I didn't sleep a wink but in the end it was very easy for him to do and he was quite surprised.

mariettap - 1191 days ago Rating: 0 (0 votes) What if you bring it up at your next appt and ask your doc if it could be arranged for you to have a consultation with one of the staff anesthesiologists? Maybe you can get a good plan hammered out in advance and then go into things feeling assured that they know your needs well upon your arrival.

sorrowsmiles - 1191 days ago Rating: 0 (0 votes) I wouldn't take the chance with an epidural in your case. I would go for the knock out. Good luck. Rachel