if had/having epidural what is best, mobile or full works

[bigboydiditandranaway]

would like an epidural if poss next time but unsure of which to go for.

the one that allows you mobility if possible IMO

but, will that mean feeling full on contractions?

A "walking epidural" will allow you to have some movement, but does wear off and will need to be topped up - however you won't feel the contractions. You will be attached to a foetal moniter, though, which will limit your movements anyway.

Errm, depends in my experience where you deliver. Most obstetric units have a protocol, mostly for one or the other. There is seldom actually a choice. This is to make it as safe as possible, every member of staff knowing exactly what is happening.

So I suggest you get some info from the unit you plan to deliver in.

So called "mobile" epidurals use a mixture of opioid analgesic and low dose local anaesthetic, rather than higher doses of just local anaesthetic.

Have either in for long enough and you will become relatively heavy legged.

And although they are called "mobile" very few places actually allow women to walk around much with one in, because there is always a degree of motor block making muscle strength reduced, and the need for other monitoring.

I am not sure where you are based but mobile epis are not very common in UK unless you are based in London, before you get your hopes up (like me) I would find out if your hospital offers them.

I think it's absurd that a choice that blocks pain but still allows a women control of her body is not more readily available but that's a whole different rant/thread.

I called labour ward last night. they said whilst they do not offer mobile epis - they are not as strong as they used to be and I should therefore still be able to feel my legs and move around. Until I decide to turn it up of course

ta 4 your messages, will ask midwife next time i see her, hopefully she will say yes.