When to get the epidural?

Question

Out of your experiences, when do you think is the best time to get an epidural? I am terrified of the pain so i want to get it as early as possible.

Answer

I’ve never based this decision off dilation. It’s based off pain, it’s for pain! With my first I was 3cm, don’t remember with second because I was on pitocin, same thing with the third. With my last one my husband basically said “there is no reason for you to keep waiting in agony if you’re getting it anyway. Just get it so you can relax.” And I thought DUH why am I making myself suffer through these horrid contractions for no reason? So I got it. I’ll do the same thing this time.

Answer

I had mine at 2cm but my contractions were on top of each other and I only labored 3 hours including delivery

Answer

Ideally 5+ centimeters. Multiple large scale studies have shown that getting it at 4 or less can completely stall labor leading to a cascade of other interventions, but of course that’s not the case for everyone and you’ll hear anecdotal stories of theirs being successful.

Answer

This is my 4 th pregnancy and I had an epidural with my first 3 and plan to get one with this one as well. I have a horrible pain tolerance. Like I'm a pussy lol so I got the epidural at 4cm with my first two (I was also induced with my first two as well) and with my third I went into labor on my own and when I got to the hospital I was already at a 5 and they said I had to get lab work and 2 bags of fluid through me beforehand so I didn't get it until I was at 7cm and I was crying like a baby lol so as soon as your allowed.. especially if you don't have a high pain tolerance. But this is just my opinion. Everyone is different.

Answer

I got mine about an hour after my water broke. I had already been in labor for a while and I was 4-5 cm dilated.

Answer

My hospital always told me it’s whenever you need it but you can’t get it after 8cm.  I got mine at 7cm.

Answer

Both my babies the nurses asked if it’s my plan before I was even in pain and I said yes. 
My first the doctor had be dilate to 6cm and I asked once I made it to 6. It took over an hour to get it placed. That one took forever to get right. At first it was way too strong and my hands went numb. I repeatedly had them turn it down and reposition me. I pushed for about 30 minutes. 
My second didn’t care so much about how dilated I was, but I progressed so quickly I asked at 6cm and it took about 45 minutes for the anesthesiologist to come and I was almost 9cm. I was pushing before it even took full effect. I actually preferred it that way because I felt more in control. The pain isn’t always a bad thing. I felt like I could “hear” my body telling me when and how to push. I pushed 5 times and she flew out! 
Even if the anesthesiologist is in the room the procedure and time it takes to take effect (fully) is probably 40 minutes so once you think you probably can’t take it, ask then!

Answer

Mine told me you can’t miss the window, unless it’s time to push.  Just keep talking with your nurse. They’ll be the best help

Answer

I was 4cm when I got mine I asked for it and got it

Answer

It’s really up to your doctor. Ask them at what dilation can you get it.

When to get the epidural?

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