Firstly, I have to say that in this day and age there is no reason at all to have uncontrolled pain when there are so many analgesics and analgesic techniques available.

There are risks associated with all anaesthetics. However, with the training that the anaesthetists and midwifery staff receive the risks associated with epidurals are minimal.

I say go for an epidural, and enjoy your labour! But, ask to speak with the anaesthetist prior to the epidural being inserted and ask him/her to explain to you exactly what the procedure will entail, and what the risks are. This is called informed consent, and your anaesthetist has a duty to explain everything to you prior to obtaining your consent. Don't let them fob you off. If there is anything that he/she says that you do not understand then ask them to explain it to you - it's your right.

Good luck for 04-27-05, I hope it all goes well for you.

Do you know if you're having a boy or a girl?

Im having a beautiful baby boy, and by the looks of things he may be coming a little bit earlier than I thought, I am full term now and it is safe for me to have my son anytime now even though my due date isnt untill april 27th thanks for wishing me luck! I actually want to have an epidural although my mama says I shouldnt, she had me natural. She told me to just close my eyes and push, and know that he will be here soon.

i say, see how your labor goes and if the pain is unbearable then ask for an epidural. If they were that bad for you or baby they wouldnt give them. Good luck :)

Get the epidural... I was in labor for 4 hrs then my water broke....Got the epidural....Feel asleep...Woke up fully dialated pushed for 31 minutes ( pain free :) ) and out came my beautiful little girl! It's painless ( I wouldn't lie I hate needles ) and was so helpful! Good luck!

At the hospital they review over evvverrry possible side effect of the epidural in the verry begining of your labor and have you sign a consent form and you can change your mind at any time... I had one and seriously hun it really wasnt that bad just breathe thru it