Epidural vs iv pain meds?

Question

I’m finding out during my fifth pregnancy that epidural isn’t the only pain management option 😳 so I’m wanting to hear from anyone who opted for iv pain meds and how that went for them? Or anything else you think I’d need to know? My last epidural was awfully painful and didn’t even work.

Answer

IV pain meds can put yourself and unborn baby at risk for respiratory depression. I would discuss the pro’s & con’s with your OB or midwife before deciding :)

Answer

Don’t know anything about IV pain meds but the nitrous oxide (laughing gas) helped me a lot. I started it after I had already asked for the epidural, while I was waiting for the anesthesiologist, but I think I might have been able to go without had I tried the gas sooner. It didn’t take the pain away but I really didn’t care if that makes sense? And I was really able to actually relax in between. I was so tense the whole time just waiting for the next contraction that it made everything worse. So TLDR; look into the laughing gas!!

Answer

I did the iv pain meds for about 12 hours before I got my epidural. My epidural sucked also, I’m pretty sure Is the cause of my severe back pain now, and I needed an emergency c section anyway. It did keep the edge of contractions for a good while. I think I only caved because the nurse in my room made it seem like an epidural was what everyone did and I didn’t have much time to decide so she pushed it. I wish I wouldn’t have listened, but you live and learn!

Answer

I tried IV pain meds last time and I didn't feel much of a difference. However, my epidural went smoothly and I didn't have any complications from that. You can always try alternative pain methods first before you decide if you want to try an epidural again.

Answer

I used demerol through the IV  for my other 2 babies ... it gave half hour relief (not total relief but helped give a manageable break from contractions). 
I was allowed it about every 2 hours and was not allowed to have anymore once they believed I was close to delivering baby. 
My second I wasn't allowed any more and it turned into back labour after my last allowed dose. Hubby pushing my hips together helped tremendously... 
Plan to use iv meds again for this baby as well. 
I am  terrified of an epidural 😣😣😣

Epidural vs iv pain meds?

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