Can I ask the nurses/doctors to refuse?

Question

Last pregnancy I made it to 8-9cm and asked for an epidural even though I really wanted to go unmedicated. Could I ask the nurses and doctors to refuse me an epidural even if I ask for it later on?

Answer

You really can’t. If you’ve asked and they deny you, it leaves them with a huge liability. If you’d changed your mind and really wanted one, you could sue them for not giving it to you. They’re not gonna risk it. Best thing to do is have a doula or strong partner who can gently remind you why you didn’t want one to try to get you back on track. But even they aren’t gonna be able to get them to not give you one if you’re still asking

Answer

I would recommend getting a doula to speak on your behalf when things like this come up. They will follow your birth plan and be very respectful of what you want

Answer

I don’t think so, because you are allowed to change your mind/consent at any time. Best thing is to ask them to not offer or mention an epidural, and to remind you you said you didn’t want one if you ask.

Answer

I talked to my midwife in advance about my desire to have an unmedicated birth and we agreed that if I did ask for the epidural she would try to hold me off by telling me how close I am. When I was in the middle of transition I screamed for the epidural and she very calmly told me I was so close and would be doing skin to skin soon. It gave me the last little motivation I needed to keep going.

Answer

Sadly no. If you are really intent on it why not switch to a homebirth or birth center. You can ask all you would like but there isn't any other than position changes and emotional support. 
For what it's worth I asked during transition with my first right before feeling the urge to push and hubby called the nurse back before she could call for the epidural. With my second and third they were born at home and the thought of getting pain medication didn't cross my mind because I knew it wasn't an option.

Can I ask the nurses/doctors to refuse?

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