Epidurals

My daughter I did not have an epidural with, I got to the hospital when contractions were to close together, but this time I'm not exactly sure on if an epidural is right for me. Granted my mom had one with me and said she didn't feel anything with it. In highschool somebody had told me if the doctor doesn't do it right or if you jump during that it can actually paralyze you if it's not done right. Is this true? Did anyone have any side effects with the epidural? Pros & cons are asked! 🙂