WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Getting Ready for the Epidural

Childbirth
Delivery method
Getting Ready for an Epidural
An epidural is a commonly used form of pain relief during labor and delivery.
If you're considering getting an epidural, it's helpful to know what to expect and how to prepare for this procedure.
Here are some key points to consider:
Understanding the Epidural Process
  • An epidural involves the insertion of a small catheter into the space around the spinal cord in your lower back. This catheter delivers pain-relieving medication directly to the nerves that transmit pain signals from the uterus and birth canal.
  • The procedure is usually performed by an anesthesiologist or a specially trained healthcare provider who will explain the process, benefits, and potential risks associated with an epidural.
Discussing with Your Healthcare Provider
  • Talk to your healthcare provider early on about your interest in an epidural. They can provide information, answer your questions, and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your birth preferences.
  • It's important to discuss any medical conditions, allergies, or previous experiences with anesthesia or spinal procedures with your healthcare provider. This information will help them determine if an epidural is appropriate for you.
Timing and Labor Progress
  • In most cases, you can request an epidural once you are in active labor and have reached a certain level of cervical dilation. The specific guidelines for when an epidural can be administered may vary depending on the healthcare facility and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
  • Keep in mind that it may take some time for the anesthesiologist to arrive and perform the procedure. Be prepared to cope with the pain until the epidural is in place.
Preparing for the Procedure
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your lower back. The healthcare provider will need to clean the area and insert the epidural needle.
  • Stay hydrated and follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure your safety during the procedure.
  • It's beneficial to have a support person with you during the administration of the epidural. They can provide emotional support and help you maintain a comfortable position during the procedure.
Understanding Possible Side Effects and Risks
  • While epidurals are generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of. These can include temporary low blood pressure, headache, shivering, backache, or temporary loss of sensation or movement in the lower body. Your healthcare provider will discuss these with you beforehand.
  • It's important to note that epidurals may affect your ability to move and feel sensations, which can impact your ability to push effectively during the pushing stage of labor. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the process and help you adjust your pushing techniques accordingly.
Learn more
Epidural: All You Need To Know
5 min read
Epidural: Making the Best Decision
3 min read
Does Pushing Hurt With Epidural?
3 min read
K
Kita
19 Dec 2023

Omg yall these contractions bussing can’t wait for this epidural to get up here im so ready!🤦🏾‍♀️😖😭

Childbirth Delivery method
12 comments
J
Jessica
I can only imagine, you got this mama 🫶🫶
27 Mar 2024

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JENNIFER 💜💋
How many cm are you now?😍🥰💐🥲
27 Mar 2024

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Kammie
24 Oct 2023

Any mom out there that have their baby natural. What was your experience giving birth without epidural? What do I need to do to be mental and physical ready? Just asking because I had bad experience with epidural with my last two.

Childbirth Delivery method
10 comments
K
Ki 💝
It’s very painful. I just need to start with that. Lol. But it’s worth it. You are so much a stronger than you realize. When you relax and give I’m to the contractions they aren’t so bad. Remember to breathe and move around as much as possible.
27 Mar 2024

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Kammie
🙏🏾 you definitely strong mama. I will keep that in mind.
27 Mar 2024

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Joyce
29 Apr 2023

Getting ready for my epidural 😬 let’s see when she wants to make her big entrance 🥰

Childbirth Delivery method
6 comments
B
Breka
Good luck momma❤️ 🙏🏾for a safe delivery and recovery.
27 Mar 2024

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Kiea
It indeed work’s definitely trying
27 Mar 2024

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Ivy
2 Apr 2023

Hey mamas thanks for all the encouragement I’m finally ready to have my son.I’ve had my epidural now it’s time for magic I’m 6cm dilated and 80% effaced wish me luck🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

Childbirth Delivery method
5 comments
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Dia 🧞‍♀️
Good luck!! May you have a safe and speedy delivery/recovery!
27 Mar 2024

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Nicole💖
Good luck! Sending positive vibes for a safe delivery and healthy baby! 💕
27 Mar 2024

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Imani
15 Feb 2023

Getting super frustrated. Can’t eat for who knows how long and can’t get out of bed even though the epidural is wearing off. Grrrr! Last they checked I was 4cm at 6:30pm. Ready for this to be over! I’m getting so damn cranky. #hungry #tired #laboranddelivery

Childbirth Delivery method
10 comments
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♥️Miss Mendoza♥️
Wth you have a right to eat!
27 Mar 2024

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Imani
That’s what I thought too but I guess it’s an aspiration risk since I gave the epidural. Literally ate one piece of lettuce before they came in and stopped me. 😔 and lay they checked I was only 4 cm. And they don’t check regularly for progress. I’m so frustrated
27 Mar 2024

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Brittany
1 Feb 2023

Got a sigh of relief today that my OB said it’s in my file that I can have the epidural whenever I feel ready I don’t have to wait til I’m a certain dilation. I can have the epidural right away cuz I pass out from pain so I’m so relieved 💕

Childbirth Delivery method
2 comments
Y
Yolaine
I was on epidural for 11 hrs lmfao . I kept pressing the button over n over n over. I was still numb 3 hrs after i gave birth 😭
27 Mar 2024

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💕🌈Amber LeAnn🌈💕
3 Dec 2022

Epidural in. I am 9.5 centimeters dilated. My water is broke. We are ready to meet our babies 💖🥰😍🤰🏼🌈👶🏻👶🏻💕💕

Childbirth Delivery method
5 comments
S
Shanice
Omg 🎉🎉🎉 so excited for you amber I'm praying for you and the twinkies now. You got this mama ❤️
27 Mar 2024

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AshleyRae👣
Omg yay!! Them babies said induction date, yeah right we ready now lol praying for safe delivery can’t wait to see them 🥰 you got this mama.
27 Mar 2024

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Christina
12 Nov 2022

Who’s getting the epidural when it’s time this will be my 3 baby so I’m gonna be getting it I’m a baby when it comes to pain

Childbirth Delivery method
3 comments
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Dominique Rajneshe’
I think ima do natural…. It’s been 8 years so we’ll see 😂😂😂
27 Mar 2024

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Sydney
Definitely getting one when it’s time! It’s already hard being pregnant might as well try to relieve the labor pain too and be a but more comfy. 🙂
27 Mar 2024

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Naomi
6 Aug 2022

In labor ladies 5~6 cm got my epidural they broke my water! I’m ready come on baby Girl💖!

Childbirth Delivery method
19 comments
U
Umut Alí
🤞🤞🤞
27 Mar 2024

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kari
Good luck mama
27 Mar 2024

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Katelyn
2 Jul 2022

In labor and delivery!! They broke my water and gave me the epidural and I’m soo ready for this nap. Can’t wait to meet our baby girl in a few hours!!

Childbirth Delivery method
7 comments
F
Farrah
Praying for a safe delivery!
27 Mar 2024

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Leigha
Sending the best vibes your way!! 🫶🏼
27 Mar 2024

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