Epidural and immediate skin to skin

[Ooosahh]

I wondered if anyone could help.

Is is true that if you have an epidural the midwives can't give you your baby immediately, that they need to do lots of checks?

I just ask as I am a ftm and want to try skin to skin and self latching breast feeding within the first hour of birth which I've heard is most effective. I also want the option of an epidural if I need one!

Anyone ideas?

All really useful. Thank you.

I'll have a loose plan but know also that anything can happen so will try not to set my heart on things.

Thanks again everyone.