C-section-Spinal Block ?

[Rachel23]

Hi

I'll be having a c-section in around 4 weeks time and have been given the option of a spinal block or a general anesthetic.

I had two failed epidurals with my first son and had a severe spinal tap (headache) for a week after his birth. I ended up having to have a general anesthetic with him aswell.

So now, I'm torn as what too do. Should I try a spinal block which is a much smaller needle and the chances are slimer of a spinal headache? or just go for a general anesthetic and know there will be no headache, but I'll be asleep during the birth??

Do any of you have any spinal block stories/advice?? If so, I'd love to hear them.

Thanks so much!

[Baby~amore`]

i had Spinal Block with my twins - it was fine but disadvantage was it wears off quick and unless you are using PCA (PATIENT CONTROLLED ANALGESIA) afterwards correctly - it hurt as soon as I was in recovery.
I didn't have a headache.

[Kerri27]

With a spinal , Its the luck of the draw. My friend had a spinal with her natural birth 6 weeks ago and was left with no feeling, movement in her left leg. She is just starting to get it back now with physio. She gets around on crutches . Good luck with your decision.

[Melbo]

I had a spinal with no problems afterward. I didn't even feel the needle going in. As Trish says though it wears off afterward very quickly but that can be managed.

Best of luck. Let us know how you go.

[Naomi]

I had an epidural for my first birth, a spinal for my second and a combination of both for my 3rd
I would have to say i prefer the epidural over the spinal, it is easier to put in it took the aneathetist 2 hours to get my spinal in, but my epi went in in 5 mins) and it takes a while to wear off so i bonded with baby before i had to worry about pain
Thats just my opinion though

[Baby~amore`]

Anaethetist only took 5mins to put mine in -guess it depends on how easy it is for them on the day.