Is this the same journalist that wrote the stupid front page article last weekend (which was posted on BB). If so my suggestion would be to use "The Age" for lining the cats litter tray from now on....

I am "obese". I had an epidural with my first birth due to pre-eclampsia complications. It went in fine and worked properly. Only problem was trying to sit still during contractions while they put it in... obviously not a 'weight issue'.

My second birth I sailed thru in 45 minutes with no pain relief at all!

Personally, I would not let someone stick a big needle in my spine JUST for the 'what if' situations. Its this kind of scare mongering generalisation that makes some women fear birth and panic into compromising their wishes before even having the first contraction.

My sister was 'forced' into having a c/s because she was too overweight to deliver normally. She was very young and inexperienced at the time (and it was a long time ago) and she has regretted it ever since.

Ok. and if this post sounds inflammatory and aggresive, well, thats just the kind of day I'm having. Blame it on the hormones.... Im really a nice person... really.