How badly does it hurt while having an epidural administered?

Question

Hello all! I am currently 39 weeks with my first baby and am anxiosuly awaiting her little arrival. But I also am getting scared of the labor process which is normal, but I am just curious I know that the pain from having a catheder inserted in your spine is nothing compared to labor pain itself....but I'll admit I'm a wimp when it comes to needles! And was just wondering how painful it is...thanks so much to all the answerers!!!

Answer 1

For my third baby I was scared witless of someone sticking a needle in my spine and I was shaking uncontrollably...but it was so fast and quick I wondered what all the fuss was about.

I had two natural births first and they were great..painful but great.

The c-section was difficult as I had to recover from the surgery and found it challenging ..whereas after my first two babes i was up and around immediately.

I would take a bit of pain during labour over lots of pain after delivery.

But it's your choice or your doctors advice ..so good luck you'll be fine.

Answer 2

When I had mine done I felt no pain at all, my sister compared it to a bee sting.  I guess it is just different for everyone.  

Answer 3

It doesn't.  Its just a prick like you're getting blood drawn.  The contraction(s) that may come during the procedure is what hurts.  

Answer 4

Well it's not as painful as the contractions. It's a 30 seconds pinch. Just don't look at the needle.

Answer 5

I dont remember really...I had demerol first and then I think I was so focused on the pain relief that I just didnt feel it. Not to mention my labor pains were so intense before hand that it didn't matter... my hubby said I didn't look bothered by it.

Answer 6

I've seen this question posted before, and I know that some people have said it is painful.  But my experience was not so.  I truly believe that there are some really good anesthesiologists out there, and maybe some who are not so good.  Mine was incredible, and it truly was a piece of cake.  A little pinch was all I felt.  They will lean you over, supported by a nurse, so that your back is curved and they have easy access to your spine.  You'll take a deep breath, and they usually insert it during your exhale.  Honestly, I didn't even flinch, and it was over.  Also, it is very possible that you might get nauseous from the anesthesia... if this happens, tell them as soon as you start feeling it, and they can give you something to stop it immediately via the spinal.  No worries!  You'll be fine... and congratulations on your upcoming birth of your baby girl.  You are about to feel more emotion than you've ever experienced before in a single moment.  It's so exciting!  :)  

Answer 7

it hurt, a lot, but me and needles are not exactly friends either. in the end it is worth it b/c when the meds kick in all the pain goes away.

Answer 8

I didnt feel mine at all but if your a needle wimp dont look at it or better still try alternative pain reliefyou will recover quicker from other forms of pain relief.

Answer 9

If you have some pains before the epidural, you will not feel it at all, if you have no pains, its just a pinch. (Not Bad at all)

Answer 10

I couldn't feel it at all.  The contractions are worse.. it took them 4 times to get the needle in and I couldn't feel any of the insertions!!  Good luck!!

Answer 11

I waited til I really needed it from the pain of the contractions and I don't remember really feeling it at all.I cant even look when they give me a flu shot.Trust me when you NEED it,it wont mather at all the size of the needle.