I had an epidural too as i went in for an emergency cesearean and wanted DH to be there. I would say it was a very scary experience to feel your body going numb, bit by bit. I remember saying " i just want to feel my bum " (how bizarre i know!!) when i couldnt feel it any more. I felt trapped and had to concentrate on the fact that i could move my arms so moved them around freely and told poor DS who wanted to hold my hand that i would rather move them around!! Umm took ages to wear off, not sure how long. Had the catheter in as well, not sure how long either coz my DD was in special care so didnt get to see her for a while...i unfortunetly got a UTI and they wouldnt believe me when i told them so i was sent for unnessary scans, only to find out..low and behold..its a UTI!! so i was given antibiotics intraveineously (spelling!! sorry) and that wasnt plesant when attempting to breast feed. So not to sure what i will be doing 2nd time round yet..luckily dont have to worry about that just yet.