Refused epidural

[candyy]

When i was in labour with DS i was refused an epidural because i had too many white blood cells. I was wondering, did this just mean i was aneamic? And also how common is it to be refused an epidural?

too many white blood cells can be a sign of infection and some anaesthetists are reluctant to give an epi in case of infection in the epi site. Infection here can cause serious and potentially life threatening problems, hence the sterile technique used in siting the epi.

It can be refused for quite a few reasons, from low platelets and clotting disorders to spinal injuries, high temperature and being too far along. But the most common reason is unavailability of the anaesthetist, if he is busy in theatre or with another patient.

Thanks Mintpurple, what kinds of infection could it be do you think?

any kind of infection from a cold to a urine infection and anything in between will increase your white cells. They are the cells that fight infection but are not specific to any one system so as a precaution, some anaesthetists will not take a chance (some will of course!). Sometimes the WCC increases and resolves again with no obvious infection seen.

Its probably nothing to worry about, but unfortunately it stopped you getting the epi.

Thanks, it turned out i didn't need it in the end and coped fine. It's just i'd quite like the option when/if we have another baby. I guess it's just a case of keeping your fingers crossed on the day you deliver!

if you go in in normal labour with no problems, it would be very unlikely they would do bloods prior to giving you an epi. I think you were just unlucky last time - but well done for getting through it fine

Yikes! i think i must just have been unlucky that they wanted to take blood. Though i was induced and didn't give birth until 50-odd hours after my waters broke, so maybe that has something to do with it.

Well candyy girl, that was interesting conversation. Every birth is different so u never know what will happen with the next one.