I thought I was the only one who can't get through pregnancy without filling her medical record with every conceivable ailment.

I had P.E with my first pregnancy. My waters broke naturally but I was given an epidural to keep my BP down. I never felt an actual contraction and I had trouble dealing with that labour, so I was determined to have a natural water birth the next time.

Well next time rolled around and I ended up with obstetric cholestasis which meant I had to be induced for my baby's safety. Good bye water birth, but I did have a drug free birth. It was extremely painful and the 2nd phase was long. I'm glad I experienced it, but it helped me appreciate the epidural I spent the last 2.5 years loathing.

Have the epidural if you want it, it takes the pain away. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty. Wait until contractions are 5 minutes apart. Talk to your doctor about a walking epidural.

I think if you're on a glucose drip movement will be restricted, but the strep b thing is just a canula in your hand, you can even get it wet (yes, I tested +ve to it, too). Any way, if you're already attached to a drip, the addition of an epidural won't be so major.

Hope this helps. I know how you feel.

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