My Positive Epidural Experience: What I Wish I Knew Before Labor
When I look back on my birth experience, one moment stands out as a complete turning point: getting the epidural.
I had always planned on getting an epidural—I’m not someone who’s afraid to admit I wanted pain relief—but even though I expected it, I was still really scared.
Before the epidural, I was in so much pain I could barely think straight. My back and hips were aching from the hospital bed, and my contractions were hitting hard. Everything felt overwhelming. I remember looking at my husband with tears in my eyes. He gently said, “Maybe it’s time.” He was right. I had reached my limit, physically and emotionally.
When the anesthesiologist arrived, he was quick and professional, which helped ease my nerves a little. But I was still trembling—I was absolutely terrified. I’d seen *all* the epidural videos. I knew what the needle looked like. I was scared of moving, scared of the pain, scared of the unknown.
But this is where my incredible nurse stepped in. She stood in front of me, held me steady, and helped calm my shaking. Her presence was exactly what I needed in that moment.
The anesthesiologist started with a quick numbing shot. I flinched—not because it hurt, but because I was so tense and anticipating something much worse. Honestly, it just felt like a little pinch.
After that, he placed the actual epidural—and I didn’t feel a thing. No pressure, no sting, no burning. I was so caught up in the moment, I had to ask, “Wait, did you already do it?” And he smiled and said, “You’re all set.” We all kind of laughed. That’s how smooth and easy it was. I couldn’t believe it—after all the scary videos and stories I had seen, mine was the total opposite.
Almost instantly, the pain began to melt away. It was such a surreal moment—going from intense, unrelenting pain to actual relief.
“I actually had to ask, ‘Wait, did you already do it?’ That’s how smooth it was.”
Shortly after, the nurse told me they’d be inserting a catheter since I wouldn’t be able to get up. I had never had one before, and I was nervous again—but it turned out to be totally painless. I could feel a little movement, but that was it. After a minute, I didn’t even notice it anymore.
Everything that came *after* the epidural was smooth and—shockingly—painless. I’ll be writing a full blog post soon about my entire birth story, but here’s the short version: I pushed for about an hour, felt zero pain, and delivered a healthy baby boy. It was one of the most empowering moments of my life.
Once delivery was over, the epidural was removed, and the numbness slowly wore off. I felt like I had the best of both worlds: a pain-free birth and the presence to fully take in the moment.
I know not everyone has a positive experience with epidurals, and that’s totally valid. You have to do what feels right for *you* and your body. But I wanted to share my story for anyone who thinks they might want an epidural but feels unsure, scared, or overwhelmed.
You're still strong. You're still amazing. You’re still a powerful mama, no matter how you deliver.
My epidural gave me the peace I needed to meet my baby with clarity, calm, and joy. I hope this helps someone feel a little more confident in their own choice.
✨ Stay tuned—I’ll be posting my full birth story soon!
