Pregnancy comes with a slew of decisions, and one of the most passionately debated topics is whether to go for natural childbirth or to embrace the comfort of an epidural. First off, I have immense respect for those who choose natural childbirth. It’s akin to the admiration I hold for extreme athletes who dive deep into the ocean for minutes on end. I find it fascinating, but I wouldn’t willingly put myself through it.
On the flip side, my admiration for anesthesia is even greater. Like many expectant mothers, I started inquiring about the epidural around week 20 of my pregnancy. In fact, after delivering my first child, I contemplated naming her “Epidural” as a nod to this miraculous advancement in modern medicine.
By the time I was pregnant with my second child at 37, I was classified as having a “geriatric pregnancy.” This meant that during the last six weeks, I had to go in for blood work and nonstress tests twice a week. It was during these visits that nurses would remark, “Wow, that was a big contraction! Did you feel that?” To which I thought, “Of course! I’ve been wanting that epidural since week 20!”
At 38 weeks, I received an alarming call from my doctor, instructing me to head straight to the hospital due to concerning blood test results. She was vague but wanted me to bring my hospital bag. Arriving at the hospital around dinner time, I was quickly placed in a room and hooked up to monitors, waiting for the doctor who was busy with another delivery.
While we waited, my husband and I made small talk and then there it was—the sound of labor without an epidural from the next room. My eyes widened in a mix of fear and curiosity. After 20 minutes, I could no longer focus on our muted TV. After an hour, I was seriously reconsidering my life choices.
Finally, the nurse returned, and we mentioned how thin the walls were. She clarified, “Actually, the walls are thick; what you’re hearing is coming through the closed window.” We blinked in disbelief. Then came the news I wasn’t prepared for: my blood test showed I had a condition called “Snarfenflephograph” (a name I made up because I can’t remember the real one), and it could prevent me from getting an epidural.
The doctor assured me there was no risk to the baby, but my mind was racing: “You mean we drove all this way, waited hours, and you’re telling me I might not get my epidural?!” Thankfully, I maintained my composure outwardly. The doctor suggested I try to relax and maybe the baby would come early.
The next morning, as I experienced stronger contractions, my husband was at the pediatrician’s office with our daughter. Calmly, I called him and said, “You might want to tell them that ‘my wife is about to give birth without an epidural at home!’” Surprisingly, this was an effective way to get him seen quickly.
When we finally reached the hospital, I was stunned to learn I was already 7 centimeters dilated. I remembered the nurse’s advice to get in line for the anesthesiologist as soon as possible. I hurriedly exclaimed, “I’m here! Get me in line for the epidural!” First, however, I had to endure another Snarfenflephograph blood test.
As I lay there, eyes closed and sweating, trying to remember my prenatal yoga breathing, the anesthesiologist was able to stay in the room, prepared for a favorable blood test result. I don’t recall hearing the test results; I only felt a wave of relief when the antiseptic was wiped on my back. Who knew that a giant needle could bring such comfort?
The shift from overwhelming pain to relief was surreal. One moment, it was all about the agony, and the next, I was asking my husband about the DVDs we had packed. Sure, some might say I missed out on the full birthing experience by opting for an epidural, but I’d argue it’s akin to choosing anesthesia for an appendectomy. It’s not how women have done it for centuries, but given the choice, I’m sure many would opt for a little relief.
So, if you’re contemplating whether to get an epidural, here’s a gentle nudge: it’s a wonderful way to enjoy labor while indulging in some light reading or watching a movie. Just be sure to have the remote handy in case another mother is having an unmedicated experience nearby.
For more insights into pregnancy and home insemination, check out great resources like the NHS site on IVF, which provides excellent information, or explore the BabyMaker at Home Insemination Kit for further support.
Summary
The choice between natural childbirth and an epidural is a hot topic among expectant mothers. While some admire the strength of those who opt for natural methods, many, including the author, find solace in the relief that an epidural can provide. Through a humorous recounting of experiences during her pregnancies, the author shares her journey, advocating for the choice of comfort during labor.