I love Epidurals. They make childbirth so much easier in every way and you are able to focus more on what’s actually going on. It allows women to feel present during birth so that they can really enjoy the experience.
Kudos to those women who do it naturally because they are real warriors! I can’t even wrap my head around it….
Anyway, some strange things happen when you have an epidural and you may be totally unaware of them until they happen to you. I have had 3 epidurals so I’ve been there, done that.
Some of my experiences were really strange so read on to find out what can happen when you get this type of Anesthesia during childbirth.
**Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Don’t have time? Here’s the best Premium online birthing course and the first part of it’s totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best. Here’s a free Birth Planner Too!Â
There are some really nice freebies for you near the bottom of this too. Be sure to check that out. I’m giving away 6 versions of my rainbow pregnancy journal as well as milestone cards and more!
5 Things That Happen When You Have An Epidural That N One Tells You About
You May Get The Shakes
Some Women { Including me all three times } Will begin shivering furiously when the epidural starts to take effect. It’s really Bizarre and surprising.
None of the nurses warned me this would happen and I began shaking so violently that I barely had any control over my body. I couldn’t even really speak for a while. Your body also gets a total rush. That’s the only way I can explain it.
I was told that this is caused by your body reacting to the medication causing an adrenaline rush. I have since Googled it to find more information but there’s not a lot online about why this happens.
This can happen at other times during labor as well. Especially right before pushing. Imagine the adrenaline going through your body at that moment! It’s all very intense.
You’ll Have To Have A CatheterÂ
Since you’re numb from the waist down you cannot go to the bathroom on your own. They will need to do a catheter to relieve your bladder.
Some hospitals do a catheter that stays in until you’re ready to push but most do an in-and-out catheter.
This is a catheter they only put in for a few minutes to allow the urine to evacuate and then they remove it. Despite having an epidural and being mostly numb, it’s still an uncomfortable sensation.
One side effect of these catheters is that it seems to stretch out your urethra some. After having one of these, urine just pours out for a while instead of being in a stream.
But it does heal and shrink back to its original size.
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It May Not Work
I hate to break it to you and I definitely don’t want to scare you but Sometimes Epidurals don’t work. Like, at all..
This can happen when an inexperienced Anesthesiologist is assigned to you. Or sometimes you move too much because it can be slightly painful when they insert the needle.
Or your anatomy is slightly different than others.
Unfortunately, sometimes you’re just super unlucky. I don’t know. All of mine worked but my sister had one with her first child and they missed the right spot and it did nothing.
Let’s hope if you’re counting on an epidural that it works for you.
It May Only Work In Sections
Sometimes your Epidural works great, well mostly…. You may find that you have full pain relief everywhere but in one or two spots.
This is not at all uncommon and it happened to me two out of three times. I had complete numbness everywhere but this one place on the lower left side of my belly.
At first, it was mostly numb but then it sort of wore off everywhere else, and by the time I was pushing I could feel full labor, cramping, and pressure in that one spot only. It was really bizarre.
But the epidural still did a great job and even though I could feel some pain it still worked well so that my labor was generally very comfortable.
This happens pretty often to women who get epidurals and the area can vary. Sometimes the epidural works great on one side of your body but not at all on the other side. It’s just all luck I guess.
You May Need More Than One
Occasionally if you get an epidural early in labor you may need two. They won’t have to stick a needle in your spine twice, of course, because the whole thing is administered via IV, But you may run out of the pain medication and they may have to give you a second bag.
During my first labor, they induced me and the pain went from zero to one hundred in sixty seconds. It was bad.
My mom is a nurse and she said they turned the Pitocin up too high so the contractions were STRONG. I ask for an epidural early ( which pissed my crappy doctor off ) and it was the best relief I’ve ever had.
Just Added:
But it ran out and they had to give me another, then that one started to run out so they gave me this little button to push that delivered medication as needed and I used it. Like I said I was scared ladies. Just so you know my baby came out fine and he was alert and happy, for all of you worried about so much medication.
My other two labors went just fine, and I wasn’t nearly as terrified. Had one epidural for each.
Having an epidural is a great way to relax your body so that you can be present during the birth of your beautiful baby, but they also cause your body to react strangely sometimes.
It’s still well worth it if you’re going the medicine route. I don’t know why there’s not more information online about how epidurals may affect you. I was so surprised by some of it and that’s why I wanted to write this post for those who are thinking of getting one. I hope it helps!
Good luck to you mama!
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When you get close to your due date you’ll likely start wondering how you’ll actually know that you’re in labor.
Every mama does, especially if it’s your first time. While every birth is different from one woman to the next, there are some clear signs of labor that you may start to notice.
These signs can tell you how close you actually are, or they can give you a close guess.
Let’s discuss the labor symptoms that will tell you if your babe is coming in the next few days.
Afraid of Childbirth?
Read This: How To Really Take The Fear Out Of Childbirth
Also, this is a must-read:
How to get through Postpartum pain without crying And 25 Pregnancy Side Effects No One Tells You AboutÂ
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15 Early Signs Of Labour Approaching
The Baby Drops
If you notice that your belly has suddenly gotten lower and you feel a lot more pressure in your pelvis then your baby has dropped.
This a really good indicator that your babe will be arriving really soon.
This process is also known as lightening and It happens when the baby’s head literally drops lower into your pelvis, becoming engaged within your pubic bones.
Regular Contractions
This is the most obvious indicator that your babe is on her way but some contractions can be so mild you barely notice at first.
Pay close attention to your body and the way you feel.
If you notice your abdominal region tightening in a regularly timed way and feel some slight discomfort then heavy labor could be right around your corner.
These are different from Braxton Hixx Contractions that occur in a really random way.
**Have You taken a prenatal birth course yet? Well here’s an online course that only takes a few hours to go through. It’s made by birthing professionals and it has rave reviews.
Diarrhea
This is a big one. If you suddenly get Diarrhea at the very end near your due date then your labor could be coming soon.
Even within 48 hours ( though every woman varies ). This occurs because of the release of hormones called prostaglandins.
Having the runs a day or two before labor starts is the body’s way of emptying the bowels to allow the uterus to contract efficiently.
This is also good if you’re worrying about pooping on the table. You still may go some but if you have diarrhea several days beforehand it shouldn’t be as much.
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Water Breaks
Yep. When Your water breaks it’s a sure-fire sign that your babe is due to arrive the next day. It can be a leak or a gush with blood.
This doesn’t happen for all women though. Many times the water doesn’t break until right before the baby is born or the doc may even need to break it.
My point is if you think you’re in progressive labor don’t wait around for your water to break, that could be a big mistake.
Lower back pain and cramping
Dull pain in the back that comes and goes can definitely be a sign of labor pain. It may be mild at first and get worse and consistent or barely noticeable.
Bloody Discharge
You might notice a thick, pinkish, or blood-streaked discharge right before your labor starts.
This is the mucus plug that sealed your cervix during pregnancy.
It often appears just a few days before labor begins, although it’s not always noticeable. But sometimes it is. I didn’t have my mucus plug show with my first two pregnancies.
But with my third, It came suddenly and there was a HUGE amount of blood. I mean like I’m having a heavy period type of flow.
It scared me to death but it turned out that everything was fine and my baby was born within the next 24 hours.
So don’t panic if it’s a ton of blood, it doesn’t always mean something’s wrong. But definitely get in touch with the doc and go to the hospital.
Cervix Dilates
If you go to the doc and they tell your cervix is well on its way, then the baby could be close. You can help your cervix dilate faster by doing the things below:
- Walking a lot
- stretch your hips and bounce gently on a Birth Ball
- Do Gentle Exercises
- Relax with Warm Showers
- Stimulate Your Nipples
- Have an Orgasm ( or several 😉 )
 Effacement
Effacement is similar to your cervix dilating.
Effacement means that the cervix stretches and gets thinner.
Dilatation means that the cervix opens. Both help prepare your body for giving birth to your child.
The more effaced and dilated you are, the closer you are to meeting your babe.
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Nesting instinct
This urge to clean and organize is known as nesting.
Nesting during pregnancy is the overwhelming desire to get your home ready for your new baby.
The nesting instinct is strongest in the later weeks coming upon delivery.
It is an old wives’ tale that once nesting urges begin, labor could be coming soon. So get everything done that you can because he’s on his way!
Vaginal Discharge Changes Color And Consistency
This can happen even before your Mucus plug comes out. Discharge can get heavy and darker. It’s icky but it’s a good sign to watch for.
This is a sign that labor is approaching.
Joints Loosen
Your hips and pelvis may suddenly feel a lot looser right before you go into labor.
It’s a strange feeling but it’s caused by hormones that are suddenly released before your labor starts.
You may feel like your joints have progressively loosened through pregnancy but right before labor, it seems really obvious and you can feel the change.
Nausea
Many women feel nauseous about a day or so before labor actually begins. Again, this is due to heavy hormonal changes going through your body.
Skin Outbreak
Your skin can go ballistic right before you have your babe and once again it’s due to the tidal wave of hormones inside of you.
It will pass once your baby is born.
A Headache
Some women have terrible hormonal headaches right before they go into labor.
If this happens to you just take some Tylenol and take solace in knowing your baby is on her way.
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Dizziness
You may feel very dizzy in the last couple of days before your baby is born.
The main cause of dizziness in pregnancy is due to the rising hormones that cause your blood vessels to relax and widen.
This helps increase the blood flow to your baby, but it slows the return of the blood in the veins to you.
So watch out for this and stand up slowly so that you don’t fall. So these are the signs your baby will be arriving soon.
If you have several chances are you’ll be in labor and meeting your babe before you know it.
Exciting right? I wish you all the luck in the world during your special time! Enjoy!
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If you’re reading this you are probably a little { or a lot } worried about giving birth to your babe. You may be getting close to your due date and feeling very overwhelmed.
This is normal for all first-time moms and plenty of second and third-time mamas too. Giving birth is a huge deal and there’s so much to consider, mainly the pain and the thought of something going wrong.
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But there are plenty of ways to calm your thoughts and that’s what we’ll talk about today, so read on mama to get calm and ready for birth.
Want FREE BABY STUFF? I have partnered with many companies to give you the best baby freebies online including Nursing Pillow, Pregnancy Pillows, Nursing Covers, Baby Leggings, Baby Clothes and so much more. You can find out how to get your freebies in this post right here.
How To Take The Fear Out Of Birth
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Childbirth ClassesÂ
Childbirth classes are the single most effective way to take the fear out of the experience. A Labor and Delivery Nurse will tell you exactly what to expect and how to get through the whole ordeal as easily as possible.
If you don’t have time to go to a class you can take one online. It’s convenient and you can take your time or do it in one sitting. Here’s the best prenatal class online and the first parts of it are totally free! You will learn absolutely everything you need to know and it will help tremendously so make sure you sign up. A Class is a must and I think the online ones are the best.
Must Read: How to get through Postpartum pain without crying
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Set Up A Birth Plan
Planning is everything and letting the staff know what you expect and how you want things to go will make everything go more smoothly.
Once you’ve taken your prenatal class you can begin creating your birthing plan. There are some great templates online. Here’s a good one that covers everything and it’s free to download.
Read A BookÂ
Reading a good book on childbirth is also another great way to get familiar with what will happen in Labor And Delivery. It can be your reference guide and reassurance when you have questions you need answering about what you’ll experience. Here’s an excellent book called Juju Sundin’s Birth Skills: Proven Pain-Management Techniques for Your Labour and Birth. You can find it on Amazon.Â
Be Fit And Ready
Being fit and ready for birth will go a long way when it comes to making the experience easier. Fit mamas have shorter and less painful births. You can take a pregnancy fitness program like the Belly Only Program. This program was created by a fitness expert that specializes in pregnancy so take a look!
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What To Expect During The First TrimesterÂ
Talk It Out Â
Talking to someone who’s had a baby or even a professional can help make you feel better. They can answer your questions and tell you about their own experiences. Talking it out always helps.
You’re A Birthing Machine
Women are made to have babies. I know you’ve heard some horror stories, we all have, but most women give birth without any problems.
Your body will take over and it will do its thing so try not to worry and trust in your body’s natural ability to lead you. You’re gonna do great mama!
Choose A Doc Or Midwife You Really Trust
Finding the right doctor or midwife can go a long way. Don’t just pick anyone. Read reviews and meet them before you decide. Make sure it’s someone who puts you at ease and seems really empathetic. Someone who seems in line with your beliefs about birth will be the most supportive.
This will help a lot, after all, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them and you want to be sure it’s someone you can trust and talk to.
Get A Doula
A Doula is someone who can give you added, expert support during pregnancy and childbirth.
Women have been serving others in childbirth for many centuries and have proven that support from another woman has a positive impact on the labor process.
They can help provide emotional and physical support during the birthing process and many women find their presence invaluable. They often provide pain relief and comfort to the mama in the way of massage, breathing, and relaxation techniques and help with positioning.
You can learn more about Doulas here.Â
Be PreparedÂ
Having your hospital bag and belongings packed well in advance will lend you some comfort. Knowing your ready when it does happen can help keep your mind at ease.
Make sure you have everything you need with this hospital list download.Â
Have A Strong support system
Having a good support system is key inside and outside of the delivery room.
Make sure you surround yourself with friends and family that are willing to listen and comfort you when you have questions before the big day.
But the ones you bring in during labor and delivery matter the most. You’ll likely want your partner and maybe your mama { I Did! } to be present to help and comfort you. Make sure they know your fears ahead of time and that they have a calm and cool attitude.
If they become a nervous wreck then that will only stress you out more so they need to know to keep their cool no matter what and be a support system for YOU.
Just BreatheÂ
It sounds simple enough. But when we are nervous or absolutely panicked we often hold our breath. This will make you that much more scared and it will make giving birth harder too.
So being conscious of your breath and practicing before the big day is a good idea. You need to really give it some thought and give it a little time each day during the third trimester.
Sit down for at least 10 minutes a day and just take deep breaths and clear your mind. Maybe count as you breathe so you’ll have something specific to do if your stress or fear starts to take over.
***New Breastfeeding Posts You Should Read:
 7 Ways To Prevent Sagging Breasts after Breastfeeding! Â
How to firm up sagging breasts AFTER breastfeeding
7 Ways Your Totally Trashing Your Milk Supply And What To Do About it!Â
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Pray
Prayer is a great comfort to many and it can help ease your mind. Daily prayer will make you feel more prepared for what’s to come and it will lend you the extra support and comfort you need.
Give it a try!
The main take away here is to educate yourself with a Prenatal class, Set up a birthing plan, be fit and ready for the big day, and have the right support in all four corners.
These will go a long way in comforting you and easing your mind. Being prepared will make all the difference in the world!
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Good luck Mama and enjoy your babe!
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