I'm 15weeks+4 🙋♀️ I found Nurse Zabe because i watch "Mama Doctor Jones" 😄 shes an OBGYN. Only recently been subscribed here ^_^ really helpful tips though! Even though I'm in the UK 😅
The definition of natural is not made or caused by mankind. An Epidural is mad made, so by definition it's not natural. That doesn't mean there's anything wrong with it. I don't know why people get offended by being linguistically correct.
HAD the epidural. LOVED it. No problems and I was up and walking within the hour after giving birth. No side effects. No long recovery and the most beautiful memories of L&D. Recommend 100%
Love that! Do you think it was the dose/placement that made it a good experience? The timing? (Like how dilated you were when you received the epi?) Do you have any extra details you can give?
I've been interested in a pool birth or giving birth in a large bean bag. A bed just doesn't seem like a comfortable position. I want to be mostly facing down as much as I can! Let gravity do some work too 😂
I’m a newlywed and we aren’t planning to get pregnant for a while but I’ve been binge watching all your videos! I hope to have a nurse like you one day 💕💕
Agreed. I was terrified to get the epidural when I was pregnant but when I went into labor and hit about 7cm I decided to get it and it wasn't bad at all.
I had it for a csection I was terrified but felt nothing! Ended up having a panic attack after I had it and needed oxygen though 🤦🏻♀️ only because I was scared haha
I agree too. I ended up having an emergency C-section and the anesthesiologist did a great job! I was in the middle of a big contraction and I didn't really feel anything. 😂 And months before I was like heck no epidural if I can help it. (Just a personal choice/preference at the time and a little freaked out by the thought.)
I used solely heuristic remedies for my birth, I'm not particularly hippy dippy but am highly sensitive to drugs. There are so many great alternative options, I would love to hear about other options avaliable!!
Maya Chaoui oh oh sweetie you don't have to go through this fright. I had suffered from this but I came to the reality. Just put in mind that when you reach that bridge you will cross it. Enjoy your pregnancy and when that time comes you are going to overcome no matter what.
The pro is 1000% times better. Women should not needlessly suffer in a modern age with amazing medicine. An Epidural is like a piece of heaven when your in absolute hell. Recommend it.
I did my birth unmedicated. I was totally open to an epidural as part of my birth plan. But it never got so bad that I felt I needed it. When I was pushing the head out though, I was begging the nurse to just cut me open and get it out loool
Epidural made my birth so much more comfortable!! When anyone asks me if I suggest it yes! Took the stress off worrying pain and really let me focus on pushing. Baby was out in an hour :)
Same! With my 1st I ended up getting it and I was not worried about pain and focused on pushing. Currently 8 months pregnant and definitely getting an epidural again if I can ^.^
Whew contractions are like a whole other world of pain. Never felt anything like it before. I’m glad I got an epidural. Didn’t feel the epidural itself and didn’t feel the birth. They gave me a clicker for it 😁 It was crazy because I hadn’t pushed it and a nurse came in and was like “you might want to push that button now” I’m not sure how she knew but it was time to push like 5 minutes later. Thank you for that nurse! Didn’t feel a damn thing. Quick, painless delivery. The pitocin made me contract and whew, intense. Any who, thank you for being you! These videos are awesome.
Xam did you have tearing? what was your recovery like? super curious because i’m weighing the options though i’m only 10 weeks right now lol thanks for sharing your experience!
StealingSunsets Yes I tore and recovery wasn’t too bad. They made me very comfortable. You’ll wear a diaper thing for a couple of days and you will discharge and bleed a bit. So, my son was premature, only weighing in at 4lbs 7oz. I still tore and they had to stitch me up (they stitched me up a bit too much, I think, because sex 2 years later was still tough.. it took a bit to get the peeper in the hole) just being honest lol 😇 They did a fantastic job though, I think my experience was smooth because of how little he was. Of coarse every woman’s experience is different. Congrats on the baby! I hope your birth experience and recovery go well. And don’t do what I did and deny the epidural the first time they ask ( I denied it the first time they asked if I wanted an epidural because I was feeling ok, little did I know shit was about to get real haha don’t make the same mistake) it’s intense but once the meds kick in you shouldn’t feel anything. I hope you have an healthy pregnancy and baby. 💕 Edit: sorry for the wall of text, hopefully it helped you and if not I’m sorry for the rambling lol
dear gosh you are literally an angel. I've been freaking out so badly about my due date coming and what the epidural will actually be like. this is putting my mind so much at ease.
Thank you so much for this! First of all, your distinction between pain and suffering was mind-blowing for me and a real game changer--it changed my whole perspective on epidurals. Secondly, thank you SO MUCH for actually giving a BALANCED perspective on epidurals! I've done a lot of research on these, and I think this might actually be the *first time* I've heard both the positives and the negatives from the *same person*. Usually it's either "epidurals are awful and are guaranteed to cause a cascade of interventions and you should never ever get them or else you're a failure" or "epidurals are so awesome, bad stuff hardly ever happens so don't even worry about it, and anyone who doesn't want one is a crazy hippie person," so it really means a lot to hear a balanced perspective!
Uhhhh I hope I have a nurse like you looking after me and baby ❤️💙 Thank you for your videos, they’ve truly answered many questions for me and have actually calmed my nerves. 💙💕
Thank you! I appreciate your pros AND cons. Instead of just preaching about your own preferences. Your videos bring me such comfort. You're very knowledgeable and I feel confident I know my stuff after listening to you.
I don't have children and don't plan on having them for a while but i love watching your videos! So informative and i would love to have a nurse like you!
We are trying to conceive right now and I have been watching your videos lately. You are so amazing. I am the kind of person that likes to plan and know EVERYTHING before I go into something. Your videos are exactly what I have been looking for. From the bottom of my heart thank you so much!
I love your videos! Thank you so much for sharing all of this information. I'm about to go into labor myself, and your videos have been very helpful in preparing for it mentally. 💖❤️
I’m expecting my first in February. And I’ve found your videos, and I really am so glad I did. You’re so calming and comforting, and super informative. Thanks so much for doing what you’re doing!
I’m almost 30 weeks pregnant and can’t even tell you how helpful your videos have been. You were truly born for this, thanks so much for the good work!
Thank you for all your videos! I am almost 22 weeks pregnant with my first child, and am trying to research/prepare, and your videos are helping tremendously. I hope I have a delivery nurse like you! Thank you for the great care you give.
I am a 20-year-old college student and I in NO way am planning to have a child soon, but I love your videos!!! You have such a sweet and soothing nature about you. Thanks for the lessons!
So happy I stumbled across your videos. I get soo emotional every time I watch one. I’m expecting my first April 24th and I want to educate myself on everything childbirth and your videos are so HELPFUL.
Currently 37 weeks. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge. 💙💙💙 Even though it is not my first birth I still get a little nervous about making that choice, epidural or no epidural.
Thank you for actually going over the cons. I watched so many videos on this and you were the first to actually address the cons and possible complications in depth. I had an epidural for my first and experienced many of these complications and hope to never have to do it again.
I'm 35 weeks pregnant and I love all your videos! I have been super nervous about labour pain and delivery (still am but not as much as before) but being informed about all these things is relaxing me and has given me an overall confidence that I can manage everything. So, thank you. :)
Had my first baby 4 weeks ago! Since day one I knew I wanted to get an epidural. In my experience, it was the best thing. I was able to relax, nap and enjoy the process. Most of all, every time they would measure me and I was another centimeter dilated, it was more of a happy exciting feeling rather than “are you effing kidding me!?” (as I saw my sister go through it unmedicated) 🙂 Props to everyone who goes through this unmedicated! You all are amazing!! 💛
I had an epidural with Both. I felt empowered by the fact that I could relax and enjoy the company of my family, singing, joking, taking naps, all while having a baby hah! I loved being relaxed! It really helped be less tired and enjoy my baby as soon as she got there. I also labored all night and got no sleep so having the opportunity to nap and relax was amazing. I did get a UTI from my catheter the first time and it was absolutely the worst! But the second was perfect.
Thankyou for this video i ended up having an epidural after 14 hours of labour and i felt so guilty but physically didnt have it in me this video has made me feel so much better xx
I love your distinction between pain vs suffering. I've had a med free birth, and seen med free births, and you're right, pain can be normal, can be manageable, but no one should be expected to endure suffering without relief. There is definitely room for pain meds in labour and no one should feel shamed for taking that option. I'm definitely going to be more open to my med options for #2.
You are an amazing woman!!! Am definitely more open to the thought of having an epidural now if like you said pain turns to suffering. You are very relatable and make a lot of sense. Thank you!!! Xxx
Really, really great and concise info here. She raises something most don't think of-- pain AFTER the delivery! Labor w/o pain medication is one thing, but tearing and having to get stitches down there is a whole other thing. Even if the epidural is turned off after delivery, it helps ease some of the pain that comes after.
I’m so appreciative of your videos. It is a time of uncertainty with covid19 and know my doctor is doing his best. I still have 3 months to go but these are a nice way to help me mentally prepare for what’s to come.
Thank you for making this video, and I'm very excited to see your next video about an unmedicated birth. I'm due in 3 weeks and I'm still trying to fully decide on my birth plan. I'm super open minded and know it can change, and it's good to know that good nurses roll the flow as well and are always there to help you. :)
I absolutely want an epidural. I have suffered from period pain throughout my life and my pain tolerance is so low, I know once my contractions start I will be begging for one.
32 weeks in and this is the first time I'm considering going without the epidural. I have an appointment this week with my ob, so I'll definitely be talking with her more about this. Thank you.
It’s scary but most women end up with it. The first couple days postpartum are the worst as far as that goes, but it’s really not all that horrible. They have good sprays for numbing and some for healing. I tore with both of my boys and will probably tear again with my 3rd (due in October!) but it heals and then it’s like it never happened! You just have to take care of yourself and be patient! Good luck ladies!
I had an episiotomy with my first (which was my epidural birth) and tore with my second (which was my natural birth) and I'd prefer to tear I think. Things seemed to heal quicker and I wasnt in as much pain. Stitches aren't fun but they're pretty quick about it usually.
I had an episiotomy with my first and second degree tearing with my second. For me, an episiotomy is much worse. The recovery was more painful and I bled much longer. Tearing was not nearly as bad for me.
Seems like there might be an increase in tearing risk if youre medicated (no shame, but if youre not feeling the pain, it may be easier to push harder without gently stretching first). I have no idea if it's true, but I've wondered about it. I've only had unmedicated births and absolutely no tearing either time. Again, no shame, but I've been curious if there's a link.
I think you made a very great point on pain vs suffering mentally! Thank you for that, I’m a very petite woman and underweight but pain tolerance is high but i’m still deciding on risking going without medication. Everyone makes epidurals sound so terrible or painful but suffering mentally shouldn’t have to be part of such a happy and beautiful moment. Currently 20 weeks!
Trust me, you wont even feel that epidural once you are dialated to a 7. That is usually about the time I will have mine done and the contraction pain is pretty intense to where any needle prick is going to be unnoticed my you. The relief you feel after its in place is heavenly.
First time pregnant here. This video was incredibly helpful ❤️ Since I’ve never been through this before I have not made a fixed plan, and will adjust as Things go depending on how I feel. If I can do without the epidural I will, but if I can’t handle the pain and start feeling miserable, I will not hesitate to get it. Thank you 😊
I’m 28 weeks pregnant my first baby and your videos has been making me feel more calm about labor. I mean I’m still nervous about it but watching you videos make me feel like I got this. Can’t wait to meet this baby, I say I don’t want epidural but I feel as if when labor comes I’ll change my mind . Love your videos ❤️
I really love your videos. I'm currently pregnant with my first baby. And I was so scared about getting an epidural but also so scared about unmedicated birth. I feel way more comfortable and at ease with your information. Thanks you so so so much
I was at a birthclass a few weeks ago, where the midwife said: if the birthing mom has been pushing in the same position for an hour, without any kind of progress, she (the midwife) had been doing a poor job. Moving around is very important.
I just gave birth on the 16th and your videos gave me such piece of mind in my birth decisions and really made me feel like I knew enough of what was going on. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
Im 34 weeks pregnant. I initially was definitely wanting to get an epidural because I'm terrified of birthing pain. After watching a handful of your videos I'm feeling much more comfortable about an unmedicated birth and will go into my birth plan without a requested epidural. Though like you've said, plans can change. Thank you so much for making RU-vid videos. You're definitely the most educational one I've watched thus far and I appreciate you so much!
I watched your video the night I went into labor and I definitely had you in my thoughts when I decided to get the epidural , I was extremely afraid of it but i got it and it was the best decision ever because pain was unbearable for me with my contractions being so close , if I were to ever have a baby again epidural will be in my plans
I’m a 1st time mom expecting twins. Idk where I’d be without your help & tips! I just love your videos!! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge and expertise with us, beautiful !
This is my 2nd pregnancy and expecting twins. Baby A is making things look like we're headed for a Csection and my biggest fear is the epidural and catheter. My first birth was unmedicated and wanted the same this time around but, babies safe arrival is my goal at this point. Hoping your labor and delivery goes well!
Thank you for this. This is my first child and I’m so freaked out but excited for her to come. I hate pain and am wanting an epidural and pray it will work for me. I love your videos just thank you again for prepping me for what is about to come in 6 months
I had an epidural (doctor decided for me because I had high blood pressure) and I had the easiest and best delivery ever!! It was amazing the whole way through.
My goal is to do it without epidural. I really don't want to have a catheter. And honestly I want to experience the entire thing. I have been watching no epidural labor and delivery videos the past couple of days. It's just such a beautiful thing and I'm really hoping I can experience it. I'm only 10 weeks pregnant but I think it's important to get an idea of what you want during your labor and birth. Thank you for your videos always so very helpful!
I REALLY wish I could understand why anyone would choose to go thru such maddening pain. I've read it so many time "I want to experience it" and other renditions on that same sentence. I just am still not getting it or a more defined answer.
@@harrietpotter2646 I really don't understand why you are bothered enough to even comment on what I want to do. But you do you. I don't have to give a more defined answer it's my choice. There are pros and cons on both sides. I don't want to deal with an epidural if I don't have to.
I cant watch your videos without crying because I end up thinking about labor with my son and how I want to do things differently with my next, future child. I love your videos ❤
I had an epidural with all three of my deliveries. I regret nothing lol Thanks for such informative and helpful videos Elizabeth!! These are so great for women to hear!
I’m hoping not to, however I’m open to the thought of it! I’m an ER nurse in the facility I’ll be delivering in, and I’m very familiar with our anesthesia team which makes me feel much more comfortable as I’m not a huge fan of needles. Love your videos!!
I had an epidural May 9th 2019 and had a wonderful experience. The needle didn’t hurt and I didn’t feel any pain through my labor but I was still able to feel pressure from contractions. I was able to push on my own from the pressure. (: But I also had amazing people helping me at the hospital I went to. Plus they numb you before they insert the epidural needle. I had the button to give me more medication btw.
I would LOVE to have you as my delivery nurse Elizabeth! I am due March 27th with my first baby and I have watched four of your videos now and I absolutely LOVE your attitude and whole personality! I am jealous of all of the mamas who get to have you as their nurse! Keep up the good work Elizabeth! I love your videos!
My mom had a hot spot with her epidural while delivering me, caused a lot of stress and she ended up having to get an emergency c section... Now I'm 33 weeks pregnant and I reaallllyyyyyy want to avoid having an epidural but who knows! I'm putting in my birth plan that I'd rather avoid it. Thank you so much for the comprehensive low down on epidurals, it makes me feel SO much more informed :) ❤️
I want to go natural but I get a lot of discouraging looks from people I know. Like I won’t be able to do it or they think I’m in over my head, it’s really frustrating and discouraging. I’ve learned to just not talk about it to anyone except my boyfriend who’s on my side about everything. I’m for all things natural and it sucks to have that feeling that people don’t believe in me but it make me want to do it even more..Praying for a great delivery
A supportive partner is all that matters, girl! I got some eyerolls when I first got to the hospital about my plans to have an unmedicated birth but I did it anyway because who cares what they think! You aren't there to impress anybody (which is good because I made a lot of noise and was totally naked for a good bit of it lol). The most important thing in my experience was just to trust the process and be as completely relaxed as possible. I learned the stages of labor and practiced relaxation techniques daily at the end of my pregnancy that I learned through my childbirth education class. The support of my doula was also invaluable! For me personally, needles, numbness and the inability to move freely are my biggest fears (literally give me panic attacks when I have procedures done that require those things) so I was able to relax much more just moving and moaning and going with my body than I think I would've been with an epidural. If you are still on the fence I would personally recommend reading natural birth stories or watching videos and asking yourself what feels more relaxing and less scary to you: moving and swaying and moaning through the most intense physical experience of your life and feeling everything your body is doing as you bring baby into the world OR being mostly numbed to it all, confined to bed with all kinds of things hooked up to you with little to no pain. Once you've picked your preference, do everything you can to prepare but always be willing to change on a dime if baby's safety demands it!
You will know what to do when it’s time to make your choice. As long as your choice is informed and you do it because it’s what YOU want to do it’s the right choice.
Your videos are making me feel so much better I had an awful labor and delivery with my son 6 years ago and I’m terrified about my third pregnancy but ur videos have been helping make me feel so much better
I wanted a natural and unmedicated birth. After about 20 hours of labor and contractions I was begging for an epidural. I don’t remember any pain when epidural was administered. I just remember the bliss and relief from pain.
I’m watching this video literally on my 54th hour of back labour. I wanted to go all natural before now 😩 I had my second sweep and the contractions have gone from 0-100 and I’m in agony
Due date is in 20 days and if I’m honest getting so excited and nervous. We are completely ready to go car seat put in the car and took it to the CHP office to verify it was in correctly. Baby’s and my bag is packed and we are keeping our cars with full tanks to be prepared. Lastly everyone’s keeping their phones on loud. I keep trying to tell myself pain is temporary, and women have been giving birth for thousands of years. So I can do it! Lastly idk how you’re not at a million subscribers already?!?!? Your videos are so helpful, intriguing, and genuinely help calm me down when I’m feeling anxious.
On a related note, I wonder how hospitals cope with car-free mums? I've heard that hospitals only relinquish their custody of newborns to the mother when she presents the security guard outside with a car and infant car seat. I live in downtown L.A. and walk almost everywhere. I take the bus and subway now and then. If I have a baby, the two main hospitals I'm most likely to give birth in are walking distance and a third is a brief bus ride away. I imagine the legal bureaucracy will actually force me to acquire a car seat somehow from somewhere THAT I WILL NEVER USE AGAIN and either rent an Uber or bother my only relative in in the area, who I barely know, to give us a ride home. For a whole 9 blocks, lol!!!
You should call one of the hospitals and ask! When you call I would ask to speak to someone in labor and delivery. In big cities like that a lot of people don’t drive! I live in Ca but I live about 3 hours from LA and it’s a smaller city so it’s not as common to not have a vehicle. But I couldn’t imagine them saying no to a mom walking
For my first child, I decided I will have an unmedicated birth. I had practiced breathing exercises.. changed my mind 😃 and requested epidural during my labor. Best decision for me. Expecting my second child anytime now!!
Thank you so much! I love your videos! I had heard a lot of scary things about epidurals as well as knowing that most people don't have problems. I didn't have one with my first labor, but this time I'm going to be in a hospital instead of a birthing center. I still don't want an epidural but your video helped me know that the scary things I had heard were because of epidurals done incorrectly or just one of the possible risks. Thank you!
Your videos are really helping me as a resource through covid! I can't take in-person classes and finding zoom classes during the Holidays is almost impossible. I appreciate your knowledge, thank you!