Pain relief options

I would go in with an open mind, knowing what your options are and not ruling anything out. I was induced with my first and opted for an epidural, which was the right decision for me as I was constantly contracting due to the hormone drip and needed to get some rest. If you don’t already know, your midwife on the day will explain your options and the pros & cons of them all. Take your time deciding what’s right for you once you have all the info and don’t let anyone put you off any one type of pain relief because of their opinions on it. Last bit of advice, you don’t get a medal at the end for being brave, so take whatever you need to make it bearable. Sending lots of positive vibes for a safe & speedy delivery x

I was induced with my first - I just stuck to gas and air but towards the end I couldn’t do it anymore (I was in so much pain and felt the need to push). The midwife told me I had at least another 12 hours… so I said I needed more pain relief. She gave me morphine then told me it wouldn’t actually help with the pain it would just make me not too aware of what was going on. She then walked out on us as she couldn’t deal with it anymore. Another midwife came in half an hour later and said I was 10cm and should have been pushing that whole time! Baby came out very sleepy and I had to stay in for a few days as I was given the morphine too close to him coming out. I had my second a week ago (no induction). Just stuck to the gas and air and went a lot smoother!

@Emma that's disgusting of your first midwife to walk out, and with the morphine given to close!? I hope you put in a compliment about how she conducted herself wow!

You could ask for a half dose of it

I started with gas and air but within 4 hours went from 6cm to 8cm and I couldn’t put up with the pressure in my lower back the contractions I could handle but my lower back pain was taking over my body so I had an epidural they let me rest for 1 hour and I dilated to 10cm then was ready to push. I would say go on with an open mind I went in wanting the epidural but I’m glad I gave the gas and air a go as it got me through for a long time. Just listen to your body and what you want to make it though and don’t be nervous it’s the most amazing experience I have ever gone through ❤️