I'm 15weeks+4 🙋♀️ I found Nurse Zabe because i watch "Mama Doctor Jones" 😄 shes an OBGYN. Only recently been subscribed here ^_^ really helpful tips though! Even though I'm in the UK 😅
I've been interested in a pool birth or giving birth in a large bean bag. A bed just doesn't seem like a comfortable position. I want to be mostly facing down as much as I can! Let gravity do some work too 😂
The definition of natural is not made or caused by mankind. An Epidural is mad made, so by definition it's not natural. That doesn't mean there's anything wrong with it. I don't know why people get offended by being linguistically correct.
HAD the epidural. LOVED it. No problems and I was up and walking within the hour after giving birth. No side effects. No long recovery and the most beautiful memories of L&D. Recommend 100%
Love that! Do you think it was the dose/placement that made it a good experience? The timing? (Like how dilated you were when you received the epi?) Do you have any extra details you can give?
Agreed. I was terrified to get the epidural when I was pregnant but when I went into labor and hit about 7cm I decided to get it and it wasn't bad at all.
I had it for a csection I was terrified but felt nothing! Ended up having a panic attack after I had it and needed oxygen though 🤦🏻♀️ only because I was scared haha
I agree too. I ended up having an emergency C-section and the anesthesiologist did a great job! I was in the middle of a big contraction and I didn't really feel anything. 😂 And months before I was like heck no epidural if I can help it. (Just a personal choice/preference at the time and a little freaked out by the thought.)
I’m a newlywed and we aren’t planning to get pregnant for a while but I’ve been binge watching all your videos! I hope to have a nurse like you one day 💕💕
I used solely heuristic remedies for my birth, I'm not particularly hippy dippy but am highly sensitive to drugs. There are so many great alternative options, I would love to hear about other options avaliable!!
Maya Chaoui oh oh sweetie you don't have to go through this fright. I had suffered from this but I came to the reality. Just put in mind that when you reach that bridge you will cross it. Enjoy your pregnancy and when that time comes you are going to overcome no matter what.
The pro is 1000% times better. Women should not needlessly suffer in a modern age with amazing medicine. An Epidural is like a piece of heaven when your in absolute hell. Recommend it.
Epidural made my birth so much more comfortable!! When anyone asks me if I suggest it yes! Took the stress off worrying pain and really let me focus on pushing. Baby was out in an hour :)
Same! With my 1st I ended up getting it and I was not worried about pain and focused on pushing. Currently 8 months pregnant and definitely getting an epidural again if I can ^.^
I did my birth unmedicated. I was totally open to an epidural as part of my birth plan. But it never got so bad that I felt I needed it. When I was pushing the head out though, I was begging the nurse to just cut me open and get it out loool
It’s scary but most women end up with it. The first couple days postpartum are the worst as far as that goes, but it’s really not all that horrible. They have good sprays for numbing and some for healing. I tore with both of my boys and will probably tear again with my 3rd (due in October!) but it heals and then it’s like it never happened! You just have to take care of yourself and be patient! Good luck ladies!
I had an episiotomy with my first (which was my epidural birth) and tore with my second (which was my natural birth) and I'd prefer to tear I think. Things seemed to heal quicker and I wasnt in as much pain. Stitches aren't fun but they're pretty quick about it usually.
I had an episiotomy with my first and second degree tearing with my second. For me, an episiotomy is much worse. The recovery was more painful and I bled much longer. Tearing was not nearly as bad for me.
Seems like there might be an increase in tearing risk if youre medicated (no shame, but if youre not feeling the pain, it may be easier to push harder without gently stretching first). I have no idea if it's true, but I've wondered about it. I've only had unmedicated births and absolutely no tearing either time. Again, no shame, but I've been curious if there's a link.
Whew contractions are like a whole other world of pain. Never felt anything like it before. I’m glad I got an epidural. Didn’t feel the epidural itself and didn’t feel the birth. They gave me a clicker for it 😁 It was crazy because I hadn’t pushed it and a nurse came in and was like “you might want to push that button now” I’m not sure how she knew but it was time to push like 5 minutes later. Thank you for that nurse! Didn’t feel a damn thing. Quick, painless delivery. The pitocin made me contract and whew, intense. Any who, thank you for being you! These videos are awesome.
Xam did you have tearing? what was your recovery like? super curious because i’m weighing the options though i’m only 10 weeks right now lol thanks for sharing your experience!
StealingSunsets Yes I tore and recovery wasn’t too bad. They made me very comfortable. You’ll wear a diaper thing for a couple of days and you will discharge and bleed a bit. So, my son was premature, only weighing in at 4lbs 7oz. I still tore and they had to stitch me up (they stitched me up a bit too much, I think, because sex 2 years later was still tough.. it took a bit to get the peeper in the hole) just being honest lol 😇 They did a fantastic job though, I think my experience was smooth because of how little he was. Of coarse every woman’s experience is different. Congrats on the baby! I hope your birth experience and recovery go well. And don’t do what I did and deny the epidural the first time they ask ( I denied it the first time they asked if I wanted an epidural because I was feeling ok, little did I know shit was about to get real haha don’t make the same mistake) it’s intense but once the meds kick in you shouldn’t feel anything. I hope you have an healthy pregnancy and baby. 💕 Edit: sorry for the wall of text, hopefully it helped you and if not I’m sorry for the rambling lol
Thank you so much for this! First of all, your distinction between pain and suffering was mind-blowing for me and a real game changer--it changed my whole perspective on epidurals. Secondly, thank you SO MUCH for actually giving a BALANCED perspective on epidurals! I've done a lot of research on these, and I think this might actually be the *first time* I've heard both the positives and the negatives from the *same person*. Usually it's either "epidurals are awful and are guaranteed to cause a cascade of interventions and you should never ever get them or else you're a failure" or "epidurals are so awesome, bad stuff hardly ever happens so don't even worry about it, and anyone who doesn't want one is a crazy hippie person," so it really means a lot to hear a balanced perspective!
My goal is to do it without epidural. I really don't want to have a catheter. And honestly I want to experience the entire thing. I have been watching no epidural labor and delivery videos the past couple of days. It's just such a beautiful thing and I'm really hoping I can experience it. I'm only 10 weeks pregnant but I think it's important to get an idea of what you want during your labor and birth. Thank you for your videos always so very helpful!
I REALLY wish I could understand why anyone would choose to go thru such maddening pain. I've read it so many time "I want to experience it" and other renditions on that same sentence. I just am still not getting it or a more defined answer.
@@harrietpotter2646 I really don't understand why you are bothered enough to even comment on what I want to do. But you do you. I don't have to give a more defined answer it's my choice. There are pros and cons on both sides. I don't want to deal with an epidural if I don't have to.
I want to go natural but I get a lot of discouraging looks from people I know. Like I won’t be able to do it or they think I’m in over my head, it’s really frustrating and discouraging. I’ve learned to just not talk about it to anyone except my boyfriend who’s on my side about everything. I’m for all things natural and it sucks to have that feeling that people don’t believe in me but it make me want to do it even more..Praying for a great delivery
A supportive partner is all that matters, girl! I got some eyerolls when I first got to the hospital about my plans to have an unmedicated birth but I did it anyway because who cares what they think! You aren't there to impress anybody (which is good because I made a lot of noise and was totally naked for a good bit of it lol). The most important thing in my experience was just to trust the process and be as completely relaxed as possible. I learned the stages of labor and practiced relaxation techniques daily at the end of my pregnancy that I learned through my childbirth education class. The support of my doula was also invaluable! For me personally, needles, numbness and the inability to move freely are my biggest fears (literally give me panic attacks when I have procedures done that require those things) so I was able to relax much more just moving and moaning and going with my body than I think I would've been with an epidural. If you are still on the fence I would personally recommend reading natural birth stories or watching videos and asking yourself what feels more relaxing and less scary to you: moving and swaying and moaning through the most intense physical experience of your life and feeling everything your body is doing as you bring baby into the world OR being mostly numbed to it all, confined to bed with all kinds of things hooked up to you with little to no pain. Once you've picked your preference, do everything you can to prepare but always be willing to change on a dime if baby's safety demands it!
You will know what to do when it’s time to make your choice. As long as your choice is informed and you do it because it’s what YOU want to do it’s the right choice.
I had an epidural with Both. I felt empowered by the fact that I could relax and enjoy the company of my family, singing, joking, taking naps, all while having a baby hah! I loved being relaxed! It really helped be less tired and enjoy my baby as soon as she got there. I also labored all night and got no sleep so having the opportunity to nap and relax was amazing. I did get a UTI from my catheter the first time and it was absolutely the worst! But the second was perfect.
Had my first baby 4 weeks ago! Since day one I knew I wanted to get an epidural. In my experience, it was the best thing. I was able to relax, nap and enjoy the process. Most of all, every time they would measure me and I was another centimeter dilated, it was more of a happy exciting feeling rather than “are you effing kidding me!?” (as I saw my sister go through it unmedicated) 🙂 Props to everyone who goes through this unmedicated! You all are amazing!! 💛
I had an epidural (doctor decided for me because I had high blood pressure) and I had the easiest and best delivery ever!! It was amazing the whole way through.
I absolutely want an epidural. I have suffered from period pain throughout my life and my pain tolerance is so low, I know once my contractions start I will be begging for one.
I don't have children and don't plan on having them for a while but i love watching your videos! So informative and i would love to have a nurse like you!
I was at a birthclass a few weeks ago, where the midwife said: if the birthing mom has been pushing in the same position for an hour, without any kind of progress, she (the midwife) had been doing a poor job. Moving around is very important.
I wanted a natural and unmedicated birth. After about 20 hours of labor and contractions I was begging for an epidural. I don’t remember any pain when epidural was administered. I just remember the bliss and relief from pain.
I’m watching this video literally on my 54th hour of back labour. I wanted to go all natural before now 😩 I had my second sweep and the contractions have gone from 0-100 and I’m in agony
I had an epidural with all three of my deliveries. I regret nothing lol Thanks for such informative and helpful videos Elizabeth!! These are so great for women to hear!
I had all 4 of my baby’s naturally no meds girl but i am now due with my5th in a week and I might want to try epidural because it takes so much out of you to feel all that pain but I’ll wait untill that time comes ☺️ either way your body can doit that’s what we were made for
I was my best friend’s birthing partner, the midwife she used had hospital privileges so she was going to have a water birth in the hospital. She is terrified of needles, so she was determined not to have an epidural. And she was a champ at dealing with the pain, despite being 7cm dilated, the nurses and midwife couldn’t tell when she was having a contraction except when she told them. Then her labour slowed in progression and they opted to break her water. The way the tub was set up, the midwife couldn’t check how dilated she was, and didn’t know her cervix wasn’t still opening at the same rate, but Luna, my niece was turning over and creating an enormous feeling of pressure like she had to push. So the midwife told her to push. She did for hours, with her agony intensifying. Turns out she was ramming Luna into her cervix causing some internal swelling and a lot of pain for my friend. She asked for an epidural two hours before her midwife gave in and helped her out of the tub, which by that point she was hysterical so definitely suffering. Her contractions came pretty much every two minutes, and they had to stop multiple times while trying to administer the epidural because she couldn’t stop shaking. The asshole who finally got it in then began berating her because “if [she] knew she was going to get this, [she] should not have waited so long.” The epidural hadn’t kicked in yet. She was still in pain, and at that point hysterical, she could no longer understand anything anyone said to her and just kept repeating, “I can’t.” I nearly killed him. Once the epidural began to give her relief the doctor checked and realized she was at 10cm, but decided to let her sleep for 2 hours. Which was good because she was asleep before he finished talking. Honestly we were surprised that they even allowed her the epidural at that point in her labour, but once she was awakened and her contractions restarted, it was so unbelievably better. She said if she has another baby she’ll be walking back first into the hospital with a sign pointed at her back.
I am a 20-year-old college student and I in NO way am planning to have a child soon, but I love your videos!!! You have such a sweet and soothing nature about you. Thanks for the lessons!
I went natural until I was stuck at 9.5 cm for 4 hours and I tapped out! I loved it after!!! I was sad because my husband couldn’t be in the room when they were doing it but I think it helped a ton with the pushing
In Tampa Florida husband was allowed in room but they made him sit down in a chair on opposite side but I didn’t care my nurse was awesome I held her hands 😭❤️
Really, really great and concise info here. She raises something most don't think of-- pain AFTER the delivery! Labor w/o pain medication is one thing, but tearing and having to get stitches down there is a whole other thing. Even if the epidural is turned off after delivery, it helps ease some of the pain that comes after.
Due date is in 20 days and if I’m honest getting so excited and nervous. We are completely ready to go car seat put in the car and took it to the CHP office to verify it was in correctly. Baby’s and my bag is packed and we are keeping our cars with full tanks to be prepared. Lastly everyone’s keeping their phones on loud. I keep trying to tell myself pain is temporary, and women have been giving birth for thousands of years. So I can do it! Lastly idk how you’re not at a million subscribers already?!?!? Your videos are so helpful, intriguing, and genuinely help calm me down when I’m feeling anxious.
On a related note, I wonder how hospitals cope with car-free mums? I've heard that hospitals only relinquish their custody of newborns to the mother when she presents the security guard outside with a car and infant car seat. I live in downtown L.A. and walk almost everywhere. I take the bus and subway now and then. If I have a baby, the two main hospitals I'm most likely to give birth in are walking distance and a third is a brief bus ride away. I imagine the legal bureaucracy will actually force me to acquire a car seat somehow from somewhere THAT I WILL NEVER USE AGAIN and either rent an Uber or bother my only relative in in the area, who I barely know, to give us a ride home. For a whole 9 blocks, lol!!!
You should call one of the hospitals and ask! When you call I would ask to speak to someone in labor and delivery. In big cities like that a lot of people don’t drive! I live in Ca but I live about 3 hours from LA and it’s a smaller city so it’s not as common to not have a vehicle. But I couldn’t imagine them saying no to a mom walking
Thank you! I appreciate your pros AND cons. Instead of just preaching about your own preferences. Your videos bring me such comfort. You're very knowledgeable and I feel confident I know my stuff after listening to you.
For my first child, I decided I will have an unmedicated birth. I had practiced breathing exercises.. changed my mind 😃 and requested epidural during my labor. Best decision for me. Expecting my second child anytime now!!
dear gosh you are literally an angel. I've been freaking out so badly about my due date coming and what the epidural will actually be like. this is putting my mind so much at ease.
My mom had a hot spot with her epidural while delivering me, caused a lot of stress and she ended up having to get an emergency c section... Now I'm 33 weeks pregnant and I reaallllyyyyyy want to avoid having an epidural but who knows! I'm putting in my birth plan that I'd rather avoid it. Thank you so much for the comprehensive low down on epidurals, it makes me feel SO much more informed :) ❤️
I think you made a very great point on pain vs suffering mentally! Thank you for that, I’m a very petite woman and underweight but pain tolerance is high but i’m still deciding on risking going without medication. Everyone makes epidurals sound so terrible or painful but suffering mentally shouldn’t have to be part of such a happy and beautiful moment. Currently 20 weeks!
Trust me, you wont even feel that epidural once you are dialated to a 7. That is usually about the time I will have mine done and the contraction pain is pretty intense to where any needle prick is going to be unnoticed my you. The relief you feel after its in place is heavenly.
I had hypotension and nerve damage. After that I was more afraid of the epidural than a natural delivery. I knew I'd never get one again. My natural delivery (even on pitocin with broken water) was incredible and I am so grateful for it!
First time pregnant here. This video was incredibly helpful ❤️ Since I’ve never been through this before I have not made a fixed plan, and will adjust as Things go depending on how I feel. If I can do without the epidural I will, but if I can’t handle the pain and start feeling miserable, I will not hesitate to get it. Thank you 😊
Idk why I watch these. I’m done having babies, but I just LOVE the topic of childbirth and you are so down to earth and cheery. I really think you’re the nurse all labor, delivery, and post partum moms need.
First baby active labor was only 18mins and 3 pushes and I had my daughter. I had an unmedicated birth. I will do the same with my next baby. This video just reaffirmed that I don’t ever want an epidural
Wow one rarely heard this. Just out of curiosity, did u go to hospital as soon as contractions started ? Or a lil after?( Im currently 15 weeks with my 1st child. )
@@alexagg7640 I was induced so I was already in the hospital thankfully but with my second I just had her a little over a week ago and I went to the hospital once my contractions started because we weren’t sure how fast she would come but it is always better to go in and been monitored than wait it out at home and something happen.
Thank you for this video. I planned to get an epidural. It worked, it was lovely, no issues. I had no issues with recovery and got up and moved around within the hour. Waited the hour because I was enjoying the time with my baby. For me it was not about pain management as much as the experience I wanted with my first baby. I liked how relaxed I was able to be, I got some good sleep. Pushed for 3-5min. If you are interested in an epidural I would talk to your health care professional about it. In my case it did not effect my ability to push or feel when I was ready to push. I knew.
I love your distinction between pain vs suffering. I've had a med free birth, and seen med free births, and you're right, pain can be normal, can be manageable, but no one should be expected to endure suffering without relief. There is definitely room for pain meds in labour and no one should feel shamed for taking that option. I'm definitely going to be more open to my med options for #2.
I’m 28 weeks pregnant my first baby and your videos has been making me feel more calm about labor. I mean I’m still nervous about it but watching you videos make me feel like I got this. Can’t wait to meet this baby, I say I don’t want epidural but I feel as if when labor comes I’ll change my mind . Love your videos ❤️
The not being able to move or walk or change position literally gives me anxiety. Fingers crossed that I can do this all without an epidural. Of course anything to have a healthy baby is goal #1.
I totally feel this way as well. Like mentally knowing I wont be able to feel my legs or move on my own gives me so much anxiety! But I'm really leaning towards the epidural because I'm terrified of the pain.
@@melissajenkins1637 yes. I did read that. In my experience, everyone I know is still restricted to the bed and is not allowed to get up and move around. Unfortunately, my bp was too high and an epidural was suggested. The guy fished around in my back for 15 min and several contractions. And while I was greatful for the 2 hour nap I got - I woke up to a rush of intense pain and the urge to push. While I was happy everything pretty much wore off at go time, no one really believed that I could feel everything. I didn't know why I was feeling everything, I thought something was wrong - which was freaking me out. Communication fail. And I was still made to stay in bed although I could literally stand. I pushed for 15 min and our LO was here. Happy and healthy. Tore very slightly and a couple stitches were put in - I felt every one of them. Again they didn't really understand that i could feel that. They thought I had some immunity to the numbing agent. I honestly would rather push a baby out again than sit through sutures.
Currently 37 weeks. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge. 💙💙💙 Even though it is not my first birth I still get a little nervous about making that choice, epidural or no epidural.
I had an epidural May 9th 2019 and had a wonderful experience. The needle didn’t hurt and I didn’t feel any pain through my labor but I was still able to feel pressure from contractions. I was able to push on my own from the pressure. (: But I also had amazing people helping me at the hospital I went to. Plus they numb you before they insert the epidural needle. I had the button to give me more medication btw.
I’m so glad for videos like this, I’m absolutely terrified of an epidural. I’m far more scared of an epidural than anything else about labor. I don’t really want to experience all the pain of child birth but I can’t let go of how scared I am. I know people say child birth is the worst thing ever but I’ve never had a child before, I HAVE had a spinal tap. I am almost 30 and had my spinal tap at 13 and still to this day remember the pain so vividly. It was the worst experience of my life. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to let go of the fear enough to get an epidural even though I super DONT want a natural full pain birth.
Remember liking this video very informative but i had a horrible labor experience my first baby too. I told them from the beginning I wanted the epidural since I was induced but my nurse not only did she hurt me so bad checking my cervix she didn’t want to give me the epidural telling me i didn’t need it and she didn’t give me the pain relieving med till 30 min before my daughter was born. We need more nurses like you
I really love your videos. I'm currently pregnant with my first baby. And I was so scared about getting an epidural but also so scared about unmedicated birth. I feel way more comfortable and at ease with your information. Thanks you so so so much
Uhhhh I hope I have a nurse like you looking after me and baby ❤️💙 Thank you for your videos, they’ve truly answered many questions for me and have actually calmed my nerves. 💙💕
I had an epidural all 3 times so far and loved it!!! The relief was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. I felt so mentally present, so excited!! And after, as soon as it wore off, I was up and moving feeling like a million bucks. I liked that I didn’t feel the stitching and could focus on looking at my baby 🥰 I wait until I’m at least at 6cm to make sure I’m really moving forward. Planning on doing it in a few weeks with baby #4
I agree with her. That is how it happened with me. I was in a lot of pain because of the contractions. I had the epidural. And a few seconds later they said. Look, you are having a contraction. You don’t feel them anymore. Which is a blessing. The pain of contractions leaves you tired. Without being able to sleep. My labor lasted 36 hours. When I got the epidural. I couldn’t wait to take a nap. You need the strength for what’s coming up ahead.
Your videos are making me feel so much better I had an awful labor and delivery with my son 6 years ago and I’m terrified about my third pregnancy but ur videos have been helping make me feel so much better
I’m almost 30 weeks pregnant and can’t even tell you how helpful your videos have been. You were truly born for this, thanks so much for the good work!
I’m expecting my first in February. And I’ve found your videos, and I really am so glad I did. You’re so calming and comforting, and super informative. Thanks so much for doing what you’re doing!
I would LOVE to have you as my delivery nurse Elizabeth! I am due March 27th with my first baby and I have watched four of your videos now and I absolutely LOVE your attitude and whole personality! I am jealous of all of the mamas who get to have you as their nurse! Keep up the good work Elizabeth! I love your videos!
I've given birth twice, with epidural both times, and I still really enjoyed this video and found it super interesting and helpful! I'm 36 weeks pregnant with my third and I will definitely request an epidural this time around too! The cons are scary when lined up like this, but for me it was SO worth it. I've never in my life felt such a feeling of relief as when the epidural kicked in! One thing that I thought about while watching the video is that epidurals can apparently be very different in different hospitals/countries/depending on the anesthesiologist or whatever, because I could certainly walk around and do different positions after getting the epidural. And as far as I understand, that is the standard here in Sweden. I could also feel all of the pain at the very end of labor, including the ring of fire, and as I understand it that is intentional. I kind of wish I could go through the entire process without pain but at the same time I wouldn't want to give up being able to move, walk and feel my legs during and after. Anyway, thank you for all of these really interesting and helpful videos - keep them coming! :)
So glad to know you can still feel the pressure with an epidural. I don't have great coordination, so I was afraid of pushing and not feeling anything with an epidural. Still weighing out my options, but that is comforting to know.
I'm taking my kangaroo underwear (I'll be c-section, so super high waist underwear to help keep packing in lol) slippers, nipple cream, and a whole bunch of robes haha! That's about it lol.....I feel so under packed haha!
32 weeks in and this is the first time I'm considering going without the epidural. I have an appointment this week with my ob, so I'll definitely be talking with her more about this. Thank you.
Ok I’m not pregnant and don’t plan on being pregnant in the near future. But I LOVE your vids ☺️ whoever gets you in their labour and delivery is blessed!
I’m having my first baby in 8 weeks and It’s starting to be more real everyday that passes. I’m scared and nervous, but I’m totally getting an epidural.
Thank you for this honest presentation of the pros and cons. I'm currently 25 weeks pregnant and would really prefer to avoid an epidural if I can, but I'm having the baby in France and while I haven't had the official appointment with the anesthesiologist yet, their informational material is kind of infuriating, because it doesn't present having an epidural or not as a real choice. I can see why something like 90% of French women get them: it's really presented as the only proper option, which of course, as with any medical procedure, you can opt out of, but don't say we didn't warn you. (They even try to guilt you by saying if you need an emergency C-section there's a chance that if you don't have an epidural they'll have to put you under general anesthesia, putting you and the baby at greater risk.) Of course, this is my first baby and so I could change my mind about not wanting an epidural when I'm actually in labor, but I'm honestly a bit concerned about being pressured into it. And I think it's just generally wrong to condescend to patients in this way.
Thankyou for this video i ended up having an epidural after 14 hours of labour and i felt so guilty but physically didnt have it in me this video has made me feel so much better xx
I’ve had 4 babies. Only my first one I had an epidural. My other 3 have been born vaginally, with pitocin, with no epidural. It can be done. I will be doing the same with this baby (due in March 2020). It’s obviously hard and exhausting and painful but the endorphins your brain releases is so nice and my labors without an epidural were faster and I recovered better. That’s just my personal experience. I think a mom should do whatever she needs to do in labor that helps her.
Thank you for actually going over the cons. I watched so many videos on this and you were the first to actually address the cons and possible complications in depth. I had an epidural for my first and experienced many of these complications and hope to never have to do it again.
Absolutely loved my epidural. Would do it again 100000x over. And I say that as someone who had to have it done TWICE. The pain of insertion is nothing compared to child birth (and really, not that bad on a general pain scale either) and I was so relaxed during my birth. I was calm, chatting, watching New Girl, reading books, etc. I would not give that up. I have no clue if my recovery took longer, but it was about a week total. I was up and walking about an hour after my baby was born. The idea of the catheter freaked me out, but it didn't hurt and I didn't notice it at all. I support the idea of an unmedicated birth with all my heart. But I do hate reading/hearing "women have been giving birth for thousands of years!" or "its what your body was made for!" as justification for why you don't need an epidural. Birth is serious. It's not nothing. The medical interventions used today were invented out of necessity. And like all medical interventions, not everyone will need them. That doesn't mean they aren't necessities.
Im 34 weeks pregnant. I initially was definitely wanting to get an epidural because I'm terrified of birthing pain. After watching a handful of your videos I'm feeling much more comfortable about an unmedicated birth and will go into my birth plan without a requested epidural. Though like you've said, plans can change. Thank you so much for making TH-cam videos. You're definitely the most educational one I've watched thus far and I appreciate you so much!
I watched your video the night I went into labor and I definitely had you in my thoughts when I decided to get the epidural , I was extremely afraid of it but i got it and it was the best decision ever because pain was unbearable for me with my contractions being so close , if I were to ever have a baby again epidural will be in my plans
37 weeks pregnant and I have watched all your videos! I LOVE YOU! I just found out baby is breech and I will have a c section. Im soooo bummed out but watching your videos help
We are trying to conceive right now and I have been watching your videos lately. You are so amazing. I am the kind of person that likes to plan and know EVERYTHING before I go into something. Your videos are exactly what I have been looking for. From the bottom of my heart thank you so much!
I had an epidural with my 4 year old. I wasnt able to move my bottom half for 4 hours after birth, it was terrifying. I also got sharp back pains afterward for a few months. I was going to get one with my 3 year old but they didn't call for it for an hour after I asked for it and ended up coming up after I had given birth. I'm currently pregnant now and will hopefully not be getting epidural this time because I was much more comfortable afterward. I love how informative you are. Thank you
Can you come be my nurse here in Bakersfield ca ? I’m due October 30th and I pray for a nurse like you. Thank you for such an informational video. It really opens up my mind for options 🥰
I just gave birth on the 16th and your videos gave me such piece of mind in my birth decisions and really made me feel like I knew enough of what was going on. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
Just had my 3rd baby and it was a precipitous birth 😬 no time for an epidural I was out of my mind in pain but I’m actually really happy I had the chance to experience a drug free labor! Was also critical to have a sweet encouraging nurse- you guys are awesome!!!!
Had an abruption with my first, so I couldn't get up anyways, and constant pain. That epidural was amazing. Second child it allowed me to rest for a few minutes which helped me go from 6 to pushing within 30 minutes. 👍 Pushed for 30min. Granted i definitely felt more during the second, but it still helped. Going to have a third next month. I want to try unmedicated, but not going to beat myself about it. I'm more educated now than when I went to have the others, so we will see. 🤷 Thank you for the video
No. Praise the Lord. It just took awhile to be able to walk. I count myself fortunate as I had a friend get the headache that kept her down for weeks. Baby 3 I was coping fine until they said I had to be still and lay on the bed. It intensified from there. Once it was time to push I was screaming, I couldn't help it. Longest 5 minutes of my life. But I honestly believe if I wasn't told I had to be on my back I think he at least wouldn't have gotten stuck. I had wanted to squat, or be more upright but they said I had to be on my back. But everything turned out fine. He was 10.2. They took him back to the nursery because of breathing. Getting stitched was the worst because that local pain med didn't do anything....at least it didn't feel that way. We don't plan on anymore though. 😅
I’m 20 weeks with my first and I was so sure that I wanted to get a epidural but after hearing all those risks now I’m hesitant. I’m hoping to try to labor unmedicated but I have a feeling I will be tapping out for some sweet relief. Love all the information you put out there!
I’m 36 weeks pregnant currently and super super nervous because still don’t know what to do about getting an epidural or not I just hate needles I get anxiety really bad....I hope my nurses are as understanding,calm,helpful like you 😭💞all your videos are helping me getting through my anxiety about pregnancy and helping me when it’s my turn to deliver and I’m due in early oct so I needed ur videos 😩 thank you so much
So this is just a story about intermittent block epidurals, something called a saddle block, and me, an American woman, giving birth for the first time in Japan. Long story short, I wouldn’t recommend it to friends. For my first pregnancy, I made the decision to give birth in a small women’s clinic in Japan. It was the best option available to me because of where my husband and I were living and working at the time. That being said, in Japanese culture there is MUCH LESS of an emphasis on pain control than in the USA. It’s a very interesting cultural difference actually. From what I understand, most Japanese women give birth without epidurals and they do it gracefully. I was told that I was “lucky” enough that the clinic I went to offered the “intermittent block” that was briefly mentioned in this video, because the clinic was located near an American military base. However, the process was mainly referred to as a “saddle block” and I think that’s different from an actual epidural. I believe the difference is that it’s a smaller area that is numbed, compared to the traditional epidural given during labor. Unfortunately, a lot of information was lost in translation and I do regret that part of the experience. I think the entire experience would have been much less frightening and confusing if I’d been able to speak Japanese fluently or if the entire medical team had been fluent in English. One of the things I like best about this channel is learning more details about how the birth process is supposed to go, because even though I’ve been through it once I still feel like I have a lot of questions. I was induced on my due date and I was in labor for about 26 hours before I had a c-section in the clinic. I was on Pitocin for a very long time and they continued to increase the dose until the contractions started to become unbearable and I told the nurse I couldn’t handle a higher dose than I was already taking. The pain was NOT well managed by the occasional shots that they injected into my lower spine. I think I can handle pain pretty well in general and I wouldn’t ever say that I’m a weak person, but they had to hold me down in the fetal position to administer each of the shots, while I was having contractions, and I cried the whole time. The pain relief was only moderate after the first shot and wore off quickly. After the third or fourth shot, the pain was so extensive that the shots were no longer effective AT ALL. I was dilating slowly and I was completely worn out and I was also in the worst pain of my life. I wasn’t really able to walk around or anything. I was expected to remain in the birthing chair except for when I had to move to the next room for another spinal shot. I mainly remember crying a lot, begging anyone/everyone to make it stop, and telling my husband that I couldn’t bear it. (I feel so bad for him now, because he must have been really freaked out by the state of me and my total loss of control.) Eventually, I was told by the doctor that I could have a c-section right then or keep going for another 2-3 hours and then I would be forced to have a c-section, if my son had not been born by then. I couldn’t bear the thought of 2-3 more hours of suffering just for it to be in vain and to have to have a c-section anyways. So I had the c-section right then and for a brief time, I couldn’t feel much below the waist. I had some peace while they were operating on me, until the cold set in. I’ve never been so cold in my life and I never want to be that cold again. I was shivering pretty violently while they finished up. My husband later told me that the room wasn’t even cool so I guess what I was feeling was from the surgery and probable blood loss. Anyways, I didn’t know that then. (A small blessing.) The post-surgery pain wasn’t worse than the contractions but it was still awfully bad. Especially since they only would give me mild Tylenol. There was definitely a language barrier, which didn’t help, but I remember begging for pain medication and only being given another little packet of Japanese powdered Tylenol. They also didn’t tell me I had a catheter inserted so I actually walked to the bathroom at one point, with some slight assistance from panicked Japanese nurses. I think they might have been somewhat impressed too because they kept saying the Japanese equivalent of “wow, that’s amazing.” I know now that not knowing I had a catheter says a lot about about how ignorant I was and also how out of it I was. I hadn’t thought I would need a c-section and I didn’t recall reading about a catheter being common practice. At the time I just thought I could relieve a little of the pain I was feeling by using the bathroom. My husband wasn’t able to stay with me for the remainder of that night but he came back in the morning. I didn’t hold my baby until that morning, when my husband was there to help me, because I was so exhausted and still in pain. I didn’t get decent rest until days later because the nurses kept checking on me every thirty minutes and honestly, I was in too much pain to sleep anyways. I was also reluctant to hold my baby by myself because I was scared that the pain would ruin my first real bonding experience with my son. I will say now though, that holding my son for the first time was the happiest moment in my life. I regret that I couldn’t hold him right away, but I do think it was the right choice after what I had been through. After I was finally released from the Japanese clinic later that week, I called the American clinic on base and told them I’d had a c-section and I NEEDED pain medication. I told them I would pump and dump my breast milk and feed my baby formula but I needed ACTUAL DRUGS not imaginary crap like Tylenol, because I was tired of being in constant pain and feeling like my stomach was going to rip open every time I had to move. Can you guess what happened? Lol, those bastards at medical would only give me a bunch of 800mg Motrin and 600mg Tylenol. As much of those two things as I wanted, but absolutely nothing else. I will hate them forever, but I can sort of laugh about it now because it’s just so typical of a base clinic. All this to say, I guess, that if I was given the same choices again, I would NOT do it again. No one should suffer like that if they don’t have to. I respect anyone who wants to try or who has the knowledge/strength of will/support system in place to actually go through with it, but I think it’s incredibly important to have access to effective pain medication. I don’t really ever say it, but I don’t think it would be an overstatement to say that my first birth experience was traumatizing. However, watching wonderful TH-cam channels like this gives me hope for a much more positive experience next time. I would really love to have a second child and if I believed every birth experience would like my first, that probably wouldn’t ever happen. So thank you! Seriously, you make me feel so much better about the thought of giving birth again.
Wow, what an intense and traumatizing story. I am so, so sorry that happened to you. It can be so difficult with a language barrier in labor. Praying your next birth experience is calmer and your pain is controlled appropriately so you can focus on the most important thing-- welcoming the brand new soul into the world 💗💗
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I love this nurse!!!!! She's the dream nurse in delivery. Wish more would take notes.
Victoria Carter 💯 I had the worst nurses for birthing my kids! They were not on my team and they did not listen to me or my husband
Victoria Carter I agree! I don’t have kids but I hope and pray I get one like her when I do!
Currently 0 weeks pregnant and I don't know why I'm here but great video, good job.
😂😂
Same
Me too, god this is scary stuff
Same same 🤣🤣
I'm 15weeks+4 🙋♀️ I found Nurse Zabe because i watch "Mama Doctor Jones" 😄 shes an OBGYN. Only recently been subscribed here ^_^ really helpful tips though! Even though I'm in the UK 😅
Does anybody else think she looks like Drew Barrymore? (Visually, vocally, and mannerisms)
Omg yes
i was just thinking that!!
Prettier!
Was literally thinking this the whole time.
Definitely she's so pretty xx
Nurse: what’s your birthing plan
Me to have a baby lol
Rose Borelli This is me 😂😂😂
Mee too
I've been interested in a pool birth or giving birth in a large bean bag. A bed just doesn't seem like a comfortable position. I want to be mostly facing down as much as I can! Let gravity do some work too 😂
Right..
😂😂😂
Thank you for calling it epidural birth and unmediated birth not epidural and natural birth. All birth is natural ! Really love your videos
YES YES YES!
The definition of natural is not made or caused by mankind. An Epidural is mad made, so by definition it's not natural. That doesn't mean there's anything wrong with it. I don't know why people get offended by being linguistically correct.
@@jacquelinehadid8043 couldn't agree more!
@@jacquelinehadid8043 Totaly disagree. Epidural is just a pain relieving technique. Both ways baby gets out through vagina, which is natural.
In my opinion if it comes out your vagina it’s natural
HAD the epidural. LOVED it. No problems and I was up and walking within the hour after giving birth. No side effects. No long recovery and the most beautiful memories of L&D. Recommend 100%
Emily same experience! 3 times
Love that! Do you think it was the dose/placement that made it a good experience? The timing? (Like how dilated you were when you received the epi?) Do you have any extra details you can give?
Same! Was walking soon as it wore off within an hour. Didn't even feel the lidocaine
My epidural didn't fully work, hated I couldn't move around. Going to try next time without one.
Uff! Your comment gave me relief!
Epidurals seem a lot scarier than they actually are in my opinion. Mine was absolutely fantastic. 10/10.
Agreed. I was terrified to get the epidural when I was pregnant but when I went into labor and hit about 7cm I decided to get it and it wasn't bad at all.
My epidural saved my sanity. Would recommend to everyone.
Agreed! I personally didn’t feel the epidural being administered either. Quick and painless birth as well.
I had it for a csection I was terrified but felt nothing! Ended up having a panic attack after I had it and needed oxygen though 🤦🏻♀️ only because I was scared haha
I agree too. I ended up having an emergency C-section and the anesthesiologist did a great job! I was in the middle of a big contraction and I didn't really feel anything. 😂 And months before I was like heck no epidural if I can help it. (Just a personal choice/preference at the time and a little freaked out by the thought.)
I’m a newlywed and we aren’t planning to get pregnant for a while but I’ve been binge watching all your videos! I hope to have a nurse like you one day 💕💕
Sammmeeeeeeeee!!
Me too, I'm glad to see other people watch when they are not 🤰, makes me feel a little less crazy
Same!
Same girl! Not even married hahah. I find child birth very fascinating.
Can you do a video of pain management options that aren’t an epidural. Other medications etc
Great idea!
I know its not pain management, but a video on alternatives like nitrous oxide would be awesome.
I used solely heuristic remedies for my birth, I'm not particularly hippy dippy but am highly sensitive to drugs. There are so many great alternative options, I would love to hear about other options avaliable!!
I second this. I have a pretty severe fear of labor and childbirth, and now that I’m pregnant, every day is filled with panic and dread.
Maya Chaoui oh oh sweetie you don't have to go through this fright. I had suffered from this but I came to the reality. Just put in mind that when you reach that bridge you will cross it. Enjoy your pregnancy and when that time comes you are going to overcome no matter what.
This has definitely confirmed that I'd rather not have an epidural if I can! Thank you for your frank and honest videos!
stripeydani good luck, mama! 💪🏼💗
The pro is 1000% times better. Women should not needlessly suffer in a modern age with amazing medicine. An Epidural is like a piece of heaven when your in absolute hell. Recommend it.
@@Georgian1717 Well it's been two years and I didnt get an epidural, my baby arrived so fast I didnt even get a chance to consider pain relief xD
Epidural made my birth so much more comfortable!! When anyone asks me if I suggest it yes! Took the stress off worrying pain and really let me focus on pushing. Baby was out in an hour :)
Same! With my 1st I ended up getting it and I was not worried about pain and focused on pushing. Currently 8 months pregnant and definitely getting an epidural again if I can ^.^
Right ! Oh my gosh like a saving grace!
Did you shake when you got it? Is it normal ?
True
Wow... no pain and it still took you an hour??😥
I have had 3 children...3 epidurals. Amazing and easy births, all of them. My main advice is to be flexible about your birth plan
Thanks for that I’ve had two no epidurals but this time around I really want L&D to be more relaxing. Did you get it right away or waited for a while?
The Beavers Family I got it as soon as I could. At 4 cm
I did my birth unmedicated. I was totally open to an epidural as part of my birth plan. But it never got so bad that I felt I needed it. When I was pushing the head out though, I was begging the nurse to just cut me open and get it out loool
I'm gonna be flexible, but prefer to do it unmedicated, vagina
can you talk more about tearing? it's scary
Same im worried about tearing and running my lady bits for future escapades
It’s scary but most women end up with it. The first couple days postpartum are the worst as far as that goes, but it’s really not all that horrible. They have good sprays for numbing and some for healing. I tore with both of my boys and will probably tear again with my 3rd (due in October!) but it heals and then it’s like it never happened! You just have to take care of yourself and be patient! Good luck ladies!
I had an episiotomy with my first (which was my epidural birth) and tore with my second (which was my natural birth) and I'd prefer to tear I think. Things seemed to heal quicker and I wasnt in as much pain. Stitches aren't fun but they're pretty quick about it usually.
I had an episiotomy with my first and second degree tearing with my second. For me, an episiotomy is much worse. The recovery was more painful and I bled much longer. Tearing was not nearly as bad for me.
Seems like there might be an increase in tearing risk if youre medicated (no shame, but if youre not feeling the pain, it may be easier to push harder without gently stretching first). I have no idea if it's true, but I've wondered about it. I've only had unmedicated births and absolutely no tearing either time. Again, no shame, but I've been curious if there's a link.
Whew contractions are like a whole other world of pain. Never felt anything like it before. I’m glad I got an epidural. Didn’t feel the epidural itself and didn’t feel the birth. They gave me a clicker for it 😁 It was crazy because I hadn’t pushed it and a nurse came in and was like “you might want to push that button now” I’m not sure how she knew but it was time to push like 5 minutes later. Thank you for that nurse! Didn’t feel a damn thing. Quick, painless delivery. The pitocin made me contract and whew, intense. Any who, thank you for being you! These videos are awesome.
Xam did you have tearing? what was your recovery like? super curious because i’m weighing the options though i’m only 10 weeks right now lol thanks for sharing your experience!
StealingSunsets Yes I tore and recovery wasn’t too bad. They made me very comfortable. You’ll wear a diaper thing for a couple of days and you will discharge and bleed a bit. So, my son was premature, only weighing in at 4lbs 7oz. I still tore and they had to stitch me up (they stitched me up a bit too much, I think, because sex 2 years later was still tough.. it took a bit to get the peeper in the hole) just being honest lol 😇 They did a fantastic job though, I think my experience was smooth because of how little he was. Of coarse every woman’s experience is different. Congrats on the baby! I hope your birth experience and recovery go well.
And don’t do what I did and deny the epidural the first time they ask ( I denied it the first time they asked if I wanted an epidural because I was feeling ok, little did I know shit was about to get real haha don’t make the same mistake) it’s intense but once the meds kick in you shouldn’t feel anything. I hope you have an healthy pregnancy and baby. 💕
Edit: sorry for the wall of text, hopefully it helped you and if not I’m sorry for the rambling lol
I had an epidural and absolutely don’t regret it lol.
Same girl. Same 😂👌🏼
Can you do a video on the risks and benefits of induction?
Yes please!
Yes please! This is such an important topic.
yes please! really want to know more about induction and i trust her so much more than random google sources
YES!! Please
Thank you so much for this! First of all, your distinction between pain and suffering was mind-blowing for me and a real game changer--it changed my whole perspective on epidurals. Secondly, thank you SO MUCH for actually giving a BALANCED perspective on epidurals! I've done a lot of research on these, and I think this might actually be the *first time* I've heard both the positives and the negatives from the *same person*. Usually it's either "epidurals are awful and are guaranteed to cause a cascade of interventions and you should never ever get them or else you're a failure" or "epidurals are so awesome, bad stuff hardly ever happens so don't even worry about it, and anyone who doesn't want one is a crazy hippie person," so it really means a lot to hear a balanced perspective!
26 weeks pregnant with my first and I really needed this video! Thank you for sharing some of your knowledge because I still had so many questions. 💜
Same here! 💜
My goal is to do it without epidural. I really don't want to have a catheter. And honestly I want to experience the entire thing. I have been watching no epidural labor and delivery videos the past couple of days. It's just such a beautiful thing and I'm really hoping I can experience it. I'm only 10 weeks pregnant but I think it's important to get an idea of what you want during your labor and birth. Thank you for your videos always so very helpful!
Maya Papaya May i ask what other videos you’ve been watching?
I felt this way until I was actually in active labor... ;)
I REALLY wish I could understand why anyone would choose to go thru such maddening pain. I've read it so many time "I want to experience it" and other renditions on that same sentence. I just am still not getting it or a more defined answer.
@@harrietpotter2646 I really don't understand why you are bothered enough to even comment on what I want to do. But you do you. I don't have to give a more defined answer it's my choice. There are pros and cons on both sides. I don't want to deal with an epidural if I don't have to.
@@ICaughtTheSnitch26 good for you. Nothing wrong with an epidural.
I want to go natural but I get a lot of discouraging looks from people I know. Like I won’t be able to do it or they think I’m in over my head, it’s really frustrating and discouraging. I’ve learned to just not talk about it to anyone except my boyfriend who’s on my side about everything. I’m for all things natural and it sucks to have that feeling that people don’t believe in me but it make me want to do it even more..Praying for a great delivery
Girl, no matter what happens, you got this!! 💗💪🏼
A supportive partner is all that matters, girl! I got some eyerolls when I first got to the hospital about my plans to have an unmedicated birth but I did it anyway because who cares what they think! You aren't there to impress anybody (which is good because I made a lot of noise and was totally naked for a good bit of it lol). The most important thing in my experience was just to trust the process and be as completely relaxed as possible. I learned the stages of labor and practiced relaxation techniques daily at the end of my pregnancy that I learned through my childbirth education class. The support of my doula was also invaluable! For me personally, needles, numbness and the inability to move freely are my biggest fears (literally give me panic attacks when I have procedures done that require those things) so I was able to relax much more just moving and moaning and going with my body than I think I would've been with an epidural. If you are still on the fence I would personally recommend reading natural birth stories or watching videos and asking yourself what feels more relaxing and less scary to you: moving and swaying and moaning through the most intense physical experience of your life and feeling everything your body is doing as you bring baby into the world OR being mostly numbed to it all, confined to bed with all kinds of things hooked up to you with little to no pain. Once you've picked your preference, do everything you can to prepare but always be willing to change on a dime if baby's safety demands it!
Courtney Milner you can if you believe you can doesn’t matter what people say ! Stay strong 💪
Our bodies were made to give birth naturally. Your body will know what to do.
You will know what to do when it’s time to make your choice. As long as your choice is informed and you do it because it’s what YOU want to do it’s the right choice.
I had an epidural with Both. I felt empowered by the fact that I could relax and enjoy the company of my family, singing, joking, taking naps, all while having a baby hah! I loved being relaxed! It really helped be less tired and enjoy my baby as soon as she got there. I also labored all night and got no sleep so having the opportunity to nap and relax was amazing. I did get a UTI from my catheter the first time and it was absolutely the worst! But the second was perfect.
Had my first baby 4 weeks ago! Since day one I knew I wanted to get an epidural. In my experience, it was the best thing. I was able to relax, nap and enjoy the process. Most of all, every time they would measure me and I was another centimeter dilated, it was more of a happy exciting feeling rather than “are you effing kidding me!?” (as I saw my sister go through it unmedicated) 🙂
Props to everyone who goes through this unmedicated! You all are amazing!! 💛
I had an epidural (doctor decided for me because I had high blood pressure) and I had the easiest and best delivery ever!! It was amazing the whole way through.
Yes same!! The high blood pressure and all
I absolutely want an epidural. I have suffered from period pain throughout my life and my pain tolerance is so low, I know once my contractions start I will be begging for one.
I don't have children and don't plan on having them for a while but i love watching your videos! So informative and i would love to have a nurse like you!
I want you to be my nurse!! 😭😭😭
The discussion of pain vs. suffering was totally eye opening. Wish you could be there with me in L&D!
I was at a birthclass a few weeks ago, where the midwife said: if the birthing mom has been pushing in the same position for an hour, without any kind of progress, she (the midwife) had been doing a poor job.
Moving around is very important.
I’m not pregnant and nowhere near being pregnant at this point in my life but I love watching these type of videos. So informative!
Your voice is so comforting, I wanna deliver at the hospital you work at
I wanted a natural and unmedicated birth. After about 20 hours of labor and contractions I was begging for an epidural. I don’t remember any pain when epidural was administered. I just remember the bliss and relief from pain.
I’m watching this video literally on my 54th hour of back labour. I wanted to go all natural before now 😩 I had my second sweep and the contractions have gone from 0-100 and I’m in agony
I had an epidural with all three of my deliveries. I regret nothing lol Thanks for such informative and helpful videos Elizabeth!! These are so great for women to hear!
Glad you had such great experiences! Epidurals can be awesome for sure!
I am 29 weeks pregnant and thinking of having my baby naturally.
What did you decide to do?? I’m 5 months along and I’m terrified ...
I had all 4 of my baby’s naturally no meds girl but i am now due with my5th in a week and I might want to try epidural because it takes so much out of you to feel all that pain but I’ll wait untill that time comes ☺️ either way your body can doit that’s what we were made for
I was my best friend’s birthing partner, the midwife she used had hospital privileges so she was going to have a water birth in the hospital. She is terrified of needles, so she was determined not to have an epidural. And she was a champ at dealing with the pain, despite being 7cm dilated, the nurses and midwife couldn’t tell when she was having a contraction except when she told them. Then her labour slowed in progression and they opted to break her water. The way the tub was set up, the midwife couldn’t check how dilated she was, and didn’t know her cervix wasn’t still opening at the same rate, but Luna, my niece was turning over and creating an enormous feeling of pressure like she had to push. So the midwife told her to push. She did for hours, with her agony intensifying. Turns out she was ramming Luna into her cervix causing some internal swelling and a lot of pain for my friend.
She asked for an epidural two hours before her midwife gave in and helped her out of the tub, which by that point she was hysterical so definitely suffering. Her contractions came pretty much every two minutes, and they had to stop multiple times while trying to administer the epidural because she couldn’t stop shaking. The asshole who finally got it in then began berating her because “if [she] knew she was going to get this, [she] should not have waited so long.” The epidural hadn’t kicked in yet. She was still in pain, and at that point hysterical, she could no longer understand anything anyone said to her and just kept repeating, “I can’t.” I nearly killed him. Once the epidural began to give her relief the doctor checked and realized she was at 10cm, but decided to let her sleep for 2 hours. Which was good because she was asleep before he finished talking.
Honestly we were surprised that they even allowed her the epidural at that point in her labour, but once she was awakened and her contractions restarted, it was so unbelievably better. She said if she has another baby she’ll be walking back first into the hospital with a sign pointed at her back.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 My friend also opted for an epidural the last minute. I don't want to start something and not finish. I want to go for epidural first thing
I am a 20-year-old college student and I in NO way am planning to have a child soon, but I love your videos!!! You have such a sweet and soothing nature about you. Thanks for the lessons!
I went natural until I was stuck at 9.5 cm for 4 hours and I tapped out! I loved it after!!! I was sad because my husband couldn’t be in the room when they were doing it but I think it helped a ton with the pushing
I got a spinal with my c cection. My husband was holding my hand. In sweden this is normal.
I live in Chicago in the US and they wouldn’t, I needed a spinal while I was pregnant to get a cerclage and still my husband couldn’t be there
@@marthagehrig9470 Here it is standard. My husband was with me the entire time. I am so happy about it.
In Tampa Florida husband was allowed in room but they made him sit down in a chair on opposite side but I didn’t care my nurse was awesome I held her hands 😭❤️
I wonder why they wouldn't allow your husband to be there. That would instantly piss me the hell off.
Really, really great and concise info here. She raises something most don't think of-- pain AFTER the delivery! Labor w/o pain medication is one thing, but tearing and having to get stitches down there is a whole other thing. Even if the epidural is turned off after delivery, it helps ease some of the pain that comes after.
Due date is in 20 days and if I’m honest getting so excited and nervous. We are completely ready to go car seat put in the car and took it to the CHP office to verify it was in correctly. Baby’s and my bag is packed and we are keeping our cars with full tanks to be prepared. Lastly everyone’s keeping their phones on loud.
I keep trying to tell myself pain is temporary, and women have been giving birth for thousands of years. So I can do it!
Lastly idk how you’re not at a million subscribers already?!?!? Your videos are so helpful, intriguing, and genuinely help calm me down when I’m feeling anxious.
Melanie D you got this, mama!! 💗💪🏼
I keep telling myself the same things you are but I’m starting to get really nervous too!! I’m due in 6 weeks!
Good luck 💖
alexis oneill Thank you! And good luck to you as well!!:)
On a related note, I wonder how hospitals cope with car-free mums? I've heard that hospitals only relinquish their custody of newborns to the mother when she presents the security guard outside with a car and infant car seat. I live in downtown L.A. and walk almost everywhere. I take the bus and subway now and then. If I have a baby, the two main hospitals I'm most likely to give birth in are walking distance and a third is a brief bus ride away. I imagine the legal bureaucracy will actually force me to acquire a car seat somehow from somewhere THAT I WILL NEVER USE AGAIN and either rent an Uber or bother my only relative in in the area, who I barely know, to give us a ride home. For a whole 9 blocks, lol!!!
You should call one of the hospitals and ask! When you call I would ask to speak to someone in labor and delivery. In big cities like that a lot of people don’t drive! I live in Ca but I live about 3 hours from LA and it’s a smaller city so it’s not as common to not have a vehicle. But I couldn’t imagine them saying no to a mom walking
Thank you! I appreciate your pros AND cons. Instead of just preaching about your own preferences. Your videos bring me such comfort. You're very knowledgeable and I feel confident I know my stuff after listening to you.
For my first child, I decided I will have an unmedicated birth. I had practiced breathing exercises.. changed my mind 😃 and requested epidural during my labor. Best decision for me. Expecting my second child anytime now!!
dear gosh you are literally an angel. I've been freaking out so badly about my due date coming and what the epidural will actually be like. this is putting my mind so much at ease.
My mom had a hot spot with her epidural while delivering me, caused a lot of stress and she ended up having to get an emergency c section... Now I'm 33 weeks pregnant and I reaallllyyyyyy want to avoid having an epidural but who knows! I'm putting in my birth plan that I'd rather avoid it. Thank you so much for the comprehensive low down on epidurals, it makes me feel SO much more informed :) ❤️
I think you made a very great point on pain vs suffering mentally! Thank you for that, I’m a very petite woman and underweight but pain tolerance is high but i’m still deciding on risking going without medication. Everyone makes epidurals sound so terrible or painful but suffering mentally shouldn’t have to be part of such a happy and beautiful moment.
Currently 20 weeks!
Trust me, you wont even feel that epidural once you are dialated to a 7. That is usually about the time I will have mine done and the contraction pain is pretty intense to where any needle prick is going to be unnoticed my you. The relief you feel after its in place is heavenly.
I had hypotension and nerve damage. After that I was more afraid of the epidural than a natural delivery. I knew I'd never get one again. My natural delivery (even on pitocin with broken water) was incredible and I am so grateful for it!
First time pregnant here. This video was incredibly helpful ❤️ Since I’ve never been through this before I have not made a fixed plan, and will adjust as Things go depending on how I feel. If I can do without the epidural I will, but if I can’t handle the pain and start feeling miserable, I will not hesitate to get it. Thank you 😊
Idk why I watch these. I’m done having babies, but I just LOVE the topic of childbirth and you are so down to earth and cheery. I really think you’re the nurse all labor, delivery, and post partum moms need.
Jen Pen thank you so much. 😊
39 weeks pregnant and still unsure if I’ll get it or not, but this video has really helped me feel informed and at peace with whatever I decide! 💕
You are almost done!! Wishing you a happy and healthy delivery whatever you decide 💗💗
My first time pregnant and I am watching very single one of your videos. Thank you so much for sharing ❤️
First baby active labor was only 18mins and 3 pushes and I had my daughter. I had an unmedicated birth. I will do the same with my next baby. This video just reaffirmed that I don’t ever want an epidural
I needed to see this. I tell myself everyday that i am stronger than the pains of labor and i trust my body to give a successful labor. ❤
Wow one rarely heard this. Just out of curiosity, did u go to hospital as soon as contractions started ? Or a lil after?( Im currently 15 weeks with my 1st child. )
@@alexagg7640 I was induced so I was already in the hospital thankfully but with my second I just had her a little over a week ago and I went to the hospital once my contractions started because we weren’t sure how fast she would come but it is always better to go in and been monitored than wait it out at home and something happen.
Thank you for this video. I planned to get an epidural. It worked, it was lovely, no issues. I had no issues with recovery and got up and moved around within the hour. Waited the hour because I was enjoying the time with my baby.
For me it was not about pain management as much as the experience I wanted with my first baby. I liked how relaxed I was able to be, I got some good sleep. Pushed for 3-5min. If you are interested in an epidural I would talk to your health care professional about it. In my case it did not effect my ability to push or feel when I was ready to push. I knew.
I love your distinction between pain vs suffering. I've had a med free birth, and seen med free births, and you're right, pain can be normal, can be manageable, but no one should be expected to endure suffering without relief. There is definitely room for pain meds in labour and no one should feel shamed for taking that option. I'm definitely going to be more open to my med options for #2.
I’m 28 weeks pregnant my first baby and your videos has been making me feel more calm about labor. I mean I’m still nervous about it but watching you videos make me feel like I got this. Can’t wait to meet this baby, I say I don’t want epidural but I feel as if when labor comes I’ll change my mind . Love your videos ❤️
The not being able to move or walk or change position literally gives me anxiety. Fingers crossed that I can do this all without an epidural. Of course anything to have a healthy baby is goal #1.
A nurse can help you change positions.
@@moo209 yes I understand that. My anxiety comes from literally being unable to do that yourself.
I totally feel this way as well. Like mentally knowing I wont be able to feel my legs or move on my own gives me so much anxiety! But I'm really leaning towards the epidural because I'm terrified of the pain.
In one of Ina May's You Tube videos she talks about different levels of epidural medicine and with lower doses you can still move your legs :)
@@melissajenkins1637 yes. I did read that. In my experience, everyone I know is still restricted to the bed and is not allowed to get up and move around.
Unfortunately, my bp was too high and an epidural was suggested. The guy fished around in my back for 15 min and several contractions. And while I was greatful for the 2 hour nap I got - I woke up to a rush of intense pain and the urge to push. While I was happy everything pretty much wore off at go time, no one really believed that I could feel everything. I didn't know why I was feeling everything, I thought something was wrong - which was freaking me out. Communication fail. And I was still made to stay in bed although I could literally stand. I pushed for 15 min and our LO was here. Happy and healthy. Tore very slightly and a couple stitches were put in - I felt every one of them. Again they didn't really understand that i could feel that. They thought I had some immunity to the numbing agent. I honestly would rather push a baby out again than sit through sutures.
Currently 37 weeks. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge. 💙💙💙 Even though it is not my first birth I still get a little nervous about making that choice, epidural or no epidural.
I had an epidural May 9th 2019 and had a wonderful experience. The needle didn’t hurt and I didn’t feel any pain through my labor but I was still able to feel pressure from contractions. I was able to push on my own from the pressure. (: But I also had amazing people helping me at the hospital I went to. Plus they numb you before they insert the epidural needle. I had the button to give me more medication btw.
Lina_58 yay! Glad you had such a wonderful experience with your epidural and birth! 🤗
I’m so glad for videos like this, I’m absolutely terrified of an epidural. I’m far more scared of an epidural than anything else about labor. I don’t really want to experience all the pain of child birth but I can’t let go of how scared I am.
I know people say child birth is the worst thing ever but I’ve never had a child before, I HAVE had a spinal tap. I am almost 30 and had my spinal tap at 13 and still to this day remember the pain so vividly. It was the worst experience of my life. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to let go of the fear enough to get an epidural even though I super DONT want a natural full pain birth.
So interesting..... you are making me rethink things... I still don’t regret mine but I wish someone had takes me through all the impacts
Remember liking this video very informative but i had a horrible labor experience my first baby too. I told them from the beginning I wanted the epidural since I was induced but my nurse not only did she hurt me so bad checking my cervix she didn’t want to give me the epidural telling me i didn’t need it and she didn’t give me the pain relieving med till 30 min before my daughter was born. We need more nurses like you
Please do a video for wheelchair mother births
Great idea! Hugs from Norway.
Can women in wheelchair have a vaginal birth?
@@malviiina1 yes but it is different for every case but many have vaginal deliveries
I really love your videos. I'm currently pregnant with my first baby. And I was so scared about getting an epidural but also so scared about unmedicated birth. I feel way more comfortable and at ease with your information. Thanks you so so so much
Uhhhh I hope I have a nurse like you looking after me and baby ❤️💙 Thank you for your videos, they’ve truly answered many questions for me and have actually calmed my nerves. 💙💕
I had an epidural all 3 times so far and loved it!!! The relief was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. I felt so mentally present, so excited!! And after, as soon as it wore off, I was up and moving feeling like a million bucks. I liked that I didn’t feel the stitching and could focus on looking at my baby 🥰 I wait until I’m at least at 6cm to make sure I’m really moving forward. Planning on doing it in a few weeks with baby #4
As a mother of 4, heck yes epidural all the way 🙌
I agree with her. That is how it happened with me. I was in a lot of pain because of the contractions. I had the epidural. And a few seconds later they said. Look, you are having a contraction. You don’t feel them anymore. Which is a blessing. The pain of contractions leaves you tired. Without being able to sleep.
My labor lasted 36 hours. When I got the epidural. I couldn’t wait to take a nap. You need the strength for what’s coming up ahead.
You remind me SO much of Sarah Paulson! Love watching your videos.
oh god- I-
Love Sarah Paulson ❤️
Your videos are making me feel so much better I had an awful labor and delivery with my son 6 years ago and I’m terrified about my third pregnancy but ur videos have been helping make me feel so much better
you’re so educated and you really know what you’re talking about! i hope to have a labor nurse like you when i have my daughter 😭
Marina Rivera I’m sure your labor nurse will be fabulous and help you welcome a healthy baby girl! Good luck, mama! 💗💪🏼
I’m almost 30 weeks pregnant and can’t even tell you how helpful your videos have been. You were truly born for this, thanks so much for the good work!
I’m expecting my first in February. And I’ve found your videos, and I really am so glad I did. You’re so calming and comforting, and super informative. Thanks so much for doing what you’re doing!
Kayla Danielle Thanks for watching! Wishing you a healthy and safe delivery! 💗
I would LOVE to have you as my delivery nurse Elizabeth! I am due March 27th with my first baby and I have watched four of your videos now and I absolutely LOVE your attitude and whole personality! I am jealous of all of the mamas who get to have you as their nurse! Keep up the good work Elizabeth! I love your videos!
I've given birth twice, with epidural both times, and I still really enjoyed this video and found it super interesting and helpful! I'm 36 weeks pregnant with my third and I will definitely request an epidural this time around too! The cons are scary when lined up like this, but for me it was SO worth it. I've never in my life felt such a feeling of relief as when the epidural kicked in!
One thing that I thought about while watching the video is that epidurals can apparently be very different in different hospitals/countries/depending on the anesthesiologist or whatever, because I could certainly walk around and do different positions after getting the epidural. And as far as I understand, that is the standard here in Sweden. I could also feel all of the pain at the very end of labor, including the ring of fire, and as I understand it that is intentional. I kind of wish I could go through the entire process without pain but at the same time I wouldn't want to give up being able to move, walk and feel my legs during and after.
Anyway, thank you for all of these really interesting and helpful videos - keep them coming! :)
In Austria you will stay in bed after epidural, no walk at all
So glad to know you can still feel the pressure with an epidural. I don't have great coordination, so I was afraid of pushing and not feeling anything with an epidural. Still weighing out my options, but that is comforting to know.
Please make a video of what new parents should have in their hospital bag(s)!!
I'll add it to my list!
Yes! I keep stressing about this!
I'm taking my kangaroo underwear (I'll be c-section, so super high waist underwear to help keep packing in lol) slippers, nipple cream, and a whole bunch of robes haha! That's about it lol.....I feel so under packed haha!
32 weeks in and this is the first time I'm considering going without the epidural. I have an appointment this week with my ob, so I'll definitely be talking with her more about this. Thank you.
Ok I’m not pregnant and don’t plan on being pregnant in the near future. But I LOVE your vids ☺️ whoever gets you in their labour and delivery is blessed!
I’m a nurse too wishing you were my labor and delivery nurse! Thank you for this knowledge. 🙏🏾 ❤️
I’m having my first baby in 8 weeks and It’s starting to be more real everyday that passes. I’m scared and nervous, but I’m totally getting an epidural.
La Michoacana Chingona Good to have a plan! 🙌🏻🙌🏻 Good luck, mama! You got this! 💪🏼💗
Zabey Baby 2015 thank you 🙏🏻 hopefully I get someone like you in my labour and delivery.
Update!!
Thank you for this honest presentation of the pros and cons. I'm currently 25 weeks pregnant and would really prefer to avoid an epidural if I can, but I'm having the baby in France and while I haven't had the official appointment with the anesthesiologist yet, their informational material is kind of infuriating, because it doesn't present having an epidural or not as a real choice. I can see why something like 90% of French women get them: it's really presented as the only proper option, which of course, as with any medical procedure, you can opt out of, but don't say we didn't warn you. (They even try to guilt you by saying if you need an emergency C-section there's a chance that if you don't have an epidural they'll have to put you under general anesthesia, putting you and the baby at greater risk.) Of course, this is my first baby and so I could change my mind about not wanting an epidural when I'm actually in labor, but I'm honestly a bit concerned about being pressured into it. And I think it's just generally wrong to condescend to patients in this way.
Thankyou for this video i ended up having an epidural after 14 hours of labour and i felt so guilty but physically didnt have it in me this video has made me feel so much better xx
You have such a soothing way of explaining! I hope I'm blessed with a nurse like you!
My answer hell yeah trust me it doesn’t hurt and labor pains are SERIOUS don’t be afraid to take whatever they give you lol
You’ve eased my anxiety so much! Not just the information but HOW you have delivered it! Wish you could be my nurse ❤️
I’ve had 4 babies. Only my first one I had an epidural. My other 3 have been born vaginally, with pitocin, with no epidural. It can be done. I will be doing the same with this baby (due in March 2020). It’s obviously hard and exhausting and painful but the endorphins your brain releases is so nice and my labors without an epidural were faster and I recovered better. That’s just my personal experience. I think a mom should do whatever she needs to do in labor that helps her.
That’s part of why I want to do it unmediated. I want those endorphins!
Agree
I had pitocin without epidural as well. My labor was very quick and my recovery was amazing.
Thank you for actually going over the cons. I watched so many videos on this and you were the first to actually address the cons and possible complications in depth. I had an epidural for my first and experienced many of these complications and hope to never have to do it again.
Absolutely loved my epidural. Would do it again 100000x over. And I say that as someone who had to have it done TWICE. The pain of insertion is nothing compared to child birth (and really, not that bad on a general pain scale either) and I was so relaxed during my birth. I was calm, chatting, watching New Girl, reading books, etc. I would not give that up. I have no clue if my recovery took longer, but it was about a week total. I was up and walking about an hour after my baby was born. The idea of the catheter freaked me out, but it didn't hurt and I didn't notice it at all.
I support the idea of an unmedicated birth with all my heart. But I do hate reading/hearing "women have been giving birth for thousands of years!" or "its what your body was made for!" as justification for why you don't need an epidural. Birth is serious. It's not nothing. The medical interventions used today were invented out of necessity. And like all medical interventions, not everyone will need them. That doesn't mean they aren't necessities.
The catheter is what is freaking me out - so interesting to hear you didn't notice at all!! (Phew)
Im 34 weeks pregnant. I initially was definitely wanting to get an epidural because I'm terrified of birthing pain. After watching a handful of your videos I'm feeling much more comfortable about an unmedicated birth and will go into my birth plan without a requested epidural. Though like you've said, plans can change. Thank you so much for making TH-cam videos. You're definitely the most educational one I've watched thus far and I appreciate you so much!
I watched your video the night I went into labor and I definitely had you in my thoughts when I decided to get the epidural , I was extremely afraid of it but i got it and it was the best decision ever because pain was unbearable for me with my contractions being so close , if I were to ever have a baby again epidural will be in my plans
37 weeks pregnant and I have watched all your videos! I LOVE YOU! I just found out baby is breech and I will have a c section. Im soooo bummed out but watching your videos help
We are trying to conceive right now and I have been watching your videos lately. You are so amazing. I am the kind of person that likes to plan and know EVERYTHING before I go into something. Your videos are exactly what I have been looking for. From the bottom of my heart thank you so much!
My hospital had something called a walking epidural. I got it and it helped for a little bit
I had an epidural with my 4 year old. I wasnt able to move my bottom half for 4 hours after birth, it was terrifying. I also got sharp back pains afterward for a few months. I was going to get one with my 3 year old but they didn't call for it for an hour after I asked for it and ended up coming up after I had given birth. I'm currently pregnant now and will hopefully not be getting epidural this time because I was much more comfortable afterward.
I love how informative you are. Thank you
Can you come be my nurse here in Bakersfield ca ? I’m due October 30th and I pray for a nurse like you. Thank you for such an informational video. It really opens up my mind for options 🥰
The ZAVALA'S honestly same because I’m scared to go the hospital recommended out here for me
I'm due Oct. 29th!! Also in Cali! Good Luck we are almost there!
I just gave birth on the 16th and your videos gave me such piece of mind in my birth decisions and really made me feel like I knew enough of what was going on. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
I used this technology 😁two times with my boy and then the little girl. My two experiences were both AMAZING!
Just had my 3rd baby and it was a precipitous birth 😬 no time for an epidural I was out of my mind in pain but I’m actually really happy I had the chance to experience a drug free labor! Was also critical to have a sweet encouraging nurse- you guys are awesome!!!!
Had an abruption with my first, so I couldn't get up anyways, and constant pain. That epidural was amazing. Second child it allowed me to rest for a few minutes which helped me go from 6 to pushing within 30 minutes. 👍 Pushed for 30min. Granted i definitely felt more during the second, but it still helped.
Going to have a third next month. I want to try unmedicated, but not going to beat myself about it. I'm more educated now than when I went to have the others, so we will see. 🤷
Thank you for the video
Meagan, did you have any of the negative side effects she mentions in her video from getting the epidural? Also how did delivery of Baby # 3 go?
No. Praise the Lord. It just took awhile to be able to walk. I count myself fortunate as I had a friend get the headache that kept her down for weeks.
Baby 3 I was coping fine until they said I had to be still and lay on the bed. It intensified from there. Once it was time to push I was screaming, I couldn't help it. Longest 5 minutes of my life. But I honestly believe if I wasn't told I had to be on my back I think he at least wouldn't have gotten stuck. I had wanted to squat, or be more upright but they said I had to be on my back.
But everything turned out fine. He was 10.2. They took him back to the nursery because of breathing.
Getting stitched was the worst because that local pain med didn't do anything....at least it didn't feel that way.
We don't plan on anymore though. 😅
I’m 20 weeks with my first and I was so sure that I wanted to get a epidural but after hearing all those risks now I’m hesitant. I’m hoping to try to labor unmedicated but I have a feeling I will be tapping out for some sweet relief. Love all the information you put out there!
Mary I’m 20 weeks too!
I'm 30 weeks pregnant tomorrow and just thinking about all the sides effects I don't wanna get the epidural. This is my first baby too.
I’m 36 weeks pregnant currently and super super nervous because still don’t know what to do about getting an epidural or not
I just hate needles I get anxiety really bad....I hope my nurses are as understanding,calm,helpful like you 😭💞all your videos are helping me getting through my anxiety about pregnancy and helping me when it’s my turn to deliver and I’m due in early oct so I needed ur videos 😩 thank you so much
So this is just a story about intermittent block epidurals, something called a saddle block, and me, an American woman, giving birth for the first time in Japan. Long story short, I wouldn’t recommend it to friends.
For my first pregnancy, I made the decision to give birth in a small women’s clinic in Japan. It was the best option available to me because of where my husband and I were living and working at the time. That being said, in Japanese culture there is MUCH LESS of an emphasis on pain control than in the USA. It’s a very interesting cultural difference actually. From what I understand, most Japanese women give birth without epidurals and they do it gracefully. I was told that I was “lucky” enough that the clinic I went to offered the “intermittent block” that was briefly mentioned in this video, because the clinic was located near an American military base. However, the process was mainly referred to as a “saddle block” and I think that’s different from an actual epidural. I believe the difference is that it’s a smaller area that is numbed, compared to the traditional epidural given during labor. Unfortunately, a lot of information was lost in translation and I do regret that part of the experience. I think the entire experience would have been much less frightening and confusing if I’d been able to speak Japanese fluently or if the entire medical team had been fluent in English. One of the things I like best about this channel is learning more details about how the birth process is supposed to go, because even though I’ve been through it once I still feel like I have a lot of questions.
I was induced on my due date and I was in labor for about 26 hours before I had a c-section in the clinic. I was on Pitocin for a very long time and they continued to increase the dose until the contractions started to become unbearable and I told the nurse I couldn’t handle a higher dose than I was already taking. The pain was NOT well managed by the occasional shots that they injected into my lower spine. I think I can handle pain pretty well in general and I wouldn’t ever say that I’m a weak person, but they had to hold me down in the fetal position to administer each of the shots, while I was having contractions, and I cried the whole time. The pain relief was only moderate after the first shot and wore off quickly. After the third or fourth shot, the pain was so extensive that the shots were no longer effective AT ALL.
I was dilating slowly and I was completely worn out and I was also in the worst pain of my life. I wasn’t really able to walk around or anything. I was expected to remain in the birthing chair except for when I had to move to the next room for another spinal shot. I mainly remember crying a lot, begging anyone/everyone to make it stop, and telling my husband that I couldn’t bear it. (I feel so bad for him now, because he must have been really freaked out by the state of me and my total loss of control.)
Eventually, I was told by the doctor that I could have a c-section right then or keep going for another 2-3 hours and then I would be forced to have a c-section, if my son had not been born by then. I couldn’t bear the thought of 2-3 more hours of suffering just for it to be in vain and to have to have a c-section anyways. So I had the c-section right then and for a brief time, I couldn’t feel much below the waist. I had some peace while they were operating on me, until the cold set in. I’ve never been so cold in my life and I never want to be that cold again. I was shivering pretty violently while they finished up. My husband later told me that the room wasn’t even cool so I guess what I was feeling was from the surgery and probable blood loss. Anyways, I didn’t know that then. (A small blessing.)
The post-surgery pain wasn’t worse than the contractions but it was still awfully bad. Especially since they only would give me mild Tylenol. There was definitely a language barrier, which didn’t help, but I remember begging for pain medication and only being given another little packet of Japanese powdered Tylenol. They also didn’t tell me I had a catheter inserted so I actually walked to the bathroom at one point, with some slight assistance from panicked Japanese nurses. I think they might have been somewhat impressed too because they kept saying the Japanese equivalent of “wow, that’s amazing.”
I know now that not knowing I had a catheter says a lot about about how ignorant I was and also how out of it I was. I hadn’t thought I would need a c-section and I didn’t recall reading about a catheter being common practice. At the time I just thought I could relieve a little of the pain I was feeling by using the bathroom.
My husband wasn’t able to stay with me for the remainder of that night but he came back in the morning. I didn’t hold my baby until that morning, when my husband was there to help me, because I was so exhausted and still in pain. I didn’t get decent rest until days later because the nurses kept checking on me every thirty minutes and honestly, I was in too much pain to sleep anyways. I was also reluctant to hold my baby by myself because I was scared that the pain would ruin my first real bonding experience with my son. I will say now though, that holding my son for the first time was the happiest moment in my life. I regret that I couldn’t hold him right away, but I do think it was the right choice after what I had been through.
After I was finally released from the Japanese clinic later that week, I called the American clinic on base and told them I’d had a c-section and I NEEDED pain medication. I told them I would pump and dump my breast milk and feed my baby formula but I needed ACTUAL DRUGS not imaginary crap like Tylenol, because I was tired of being in constant pain and feeling like my stomach was going to rip open every time I had to move. Can you guess what happened? Lol, those bastards at medical would only give me a bunch of 800mg Motrin and 600mg Tylenol. As much of those two things as I wanted, but absolutely nothing else. I will hate them forever, but I can sort of laugh about it now because it’s just so typical of a base clinic.
All this to say, I guess, that if I was given the same choices again, I would NOT do it again. No one should suffer like that if they don’t have to. I respect anyone who wants to try or who has the knowledge/strength of will/support system in place to actually go through with it, but I think it’s incredibly important to have access to effective pain medication.
I don’t really ever say it, but I don’t think it would be an overstatement to say that my first birth experience was traumatizing. However, watching wonderful TH-cam channels like this gives me hope for a much more positive experience next time. I would really love to have a second child and if I believed every birth experience would like my first, that probably wouldn’t ever happen. So thank you! Seriously, you make me feel so much better about the thought of giving birth again.
Wow, what an intense and traumatizing story. I am so, so sorry that happened to you. It can be so difficult with a language barrier in labor. Praying your next birth experience is calmer and your pain is controlled appropriately so you can focus on the most important thing-- welcoming the brand new soul into the world 💗💗