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Is It Normal To Have Soreness In Back After Having Several Epidural Anesthesia?
Question: I had 9 failed epidural attempts while trying to give birth 16 months ago. I still feel sore in the areas where I believe the anesthesiologist attempted. I'm afraid to get pregnant again because of my fear of getting an epidural and the potential damage that could or have already occured. Can you please educate me about these concerns. Thank you!!
Brief Answer:
Epidural long term side effects are very unlikely.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern, I am sorry you have had so many failed attempts, that is not a common occurrence.
I am not sure that now after 16 months your soreness is related to that though, while in the past it was thought that an epidural could (very very rarely) be complicated with long term backache, later studies have shown no such relation, perhaps a psychological factor related to having had so many attempts should be considered for your soreness.
I also wonder if at the time you were told about some possible spinal deformity or rheumatological condition which might have made the execution of the epidural technically more difficult and cause back soreness as well.
Regarding your fear of having other children, I don't see why that should be the case. You don't necessarily need to have an epidural, there is natural childbirth. Even in the eventuality there was a complication rendering surgery necessary there is general anesthesia.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Epidural long term side effects are very unlikely.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern, I am sorry you have had so many failed attempts, that is not a common occurrence.
I am not sure that now after 16 months your soreness is related to that though, while in the past it was thought that an epidural could (very very rarely) be complicated with long term backache, later studies have shown no such relation, perhaps a psychological factor related to having had so many attempts should be considered for your soreness.
I also wonder if at the time you were told about some possible spinal deformity or rheumatological condition which might have made the execution of the epidural technically more difficult and cause back soreness as well.
Regarding your fear of having other children, I don't see why that should be the case. You don't necessarily need to have an epidural, there is natural childbirth. Even in the eventuality there was a complication rendering surgery necessary there is general anesthesia.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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