Spinal vs epidural

[Crossandratty]

I had an epidural last time which I dreaded wing put in, but it was ok.

This time I've been told I need a spinal. Is this the same as a lumbar puncture type procedure which over heard is the most painful thing ever??

Anyone had both and can tell me how they compare?

Thanks

Being, not wing!!

I didnt think there was much in it. Have more recollection of spinal - there is a brief slightly sharp pain, then what feels like quite hard pushing ( and is slightl sore in a kind of "pushing on a bruise" kind of way and then you start going numb which I found a little disconcerting, but they stabilised me soon enough and I just got excited about meeting DS2.

The main difference, I think, is that a spinal is a one of injection so nothing is left in your spine, whereas in the case of an epidural a small tube is left in so they can top up.

If I had to have either again I would not be too phased, however if I ever, ever, ever had to have a drain put in, and subsequently removed that would be an entirely different matter. Worst pain ever ever.

Don't worry!

Spinal is a one-shot technique as Poppadom correctly says above. Narrower needle is used as all that's injected is local anaesthetic (with or without a painkiller for post operative pain relief), no tube is used. Technically speaking it's a bit easier than doing an epidural, takes less time, and by the sounds of it, you won't be in labour when it's done- this is both good (makes it easier to do) and bad (you don't have any other pain to distract you). You'll have local anaesthetic put in the skin first which is like a bee sting but quickly wears off. after that all you should feel is pushing, and perhaps a tiny bit of a shooting pain when the injection of the local starts.
Hope this helps.

Thank you, that's doesn't sound too bad. I'm such a big wuss, but I can probably deal with that!

Is there a chance it won't work, like with an epidural? I remember last time the epidural only worked down one side.

Spinal anaesthetic is a lot more consistent than an epidural and the anaesthetist will check its working sufficiently before allowing the section lot proceed.
You might find this leaflet and one useful.
Spinal is much quicker, much easier and less risk than an epidural. The quality of the anaesthesia is also much better.
Best of luck

Sorry, and this one

Great links, thanks!