Epidural vs Spinal for scheduled section

shepie19

hello:) I am approaching my third section on Tuesday, and because I am delivering at a different hospital than my first 2, I will be getting a spinal block instead of an epidural. I don't know why but I am nervous for this (fear of the unknown I guess). Any experiences or advice? Is there really a difference? Did anyone have trouble breathing with a spinal? Thanks!

SmallyMcSmall

I had a spinal done for my c in March. It was a mix of whatever it is that numbs you and some form of pain medication (I believe I got dilaudid). The process of actually getting it administered wasn't that bad- you get to sit up instead of having to curl up on your side.

I specifically remember at one point during the surgery feeing like a rhino was sitting on my chest, but the feeing passed almost as quickly as it had come.

I also did have a bit of nausea during surgery, which resulted in me throwing up a few times afterwards while waiting for my room in recovery. Although the doctor told me it was caused by the spinal itself, im pretty sure it was from the pain medication that was mixed in with it. Some painkillers just don't agree with me. 

smilormarie

At my hospital you don't get a choice for scheduled. They won't do general or epidural, only spinal block.

indy_chic

I don't know that u get an option. But I've had both for different deliveries. Epidural did nothing for me whereas spinal has worked both times wonderfully!

LalanChris

I've had both. The spinal definitely made me feel like it was hard to breathe, but the anesthesiologist told me to breathe regularly, and it passed rather quickly. He also told me to let him know if I felt any nausea, as soon as I felt it I told him, and he put something in my iv, and that went away quickly as well.