Reply to how common is it for the anesthesiologist to refuse to give an epidural?

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Reply to "how common is it for the anesthesiologist to refuse to give an epidural?"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I used to listen to the Birth Hour and there would occasionally be someone on who would note they couldn't have an epidural, but they usually knew that in advance. Seems odd that this wasn't communicated to your friend until after the induction was started when they could have strategized to avoid her being in so much pain. That sounds like bad coordination/communication on the part of the medical team. Epidural analgesia can have serious side effects even among totally healthy people so I have to think it's not unheard of to risk someone out.[/quote]

CRNA here from above.  This is somewhat rare. Usually complications/conditions that take epidurals off the table are discussed during pregnancy.  However it could be that the anesthesiologist on call that night was a little more conservative and didn't feel comfortable doing it despite her getting epidurals in the past. It could be be a condition that tends to worsen with each pregnancy so maybe its something that would get an OK the first time around but not for the 2nd or 3rd birth.  Its really hard to say.  I have made a few calls that are contested. I immediately call my boss who always backs us up.  I had one woman call the head of the hospital (as in the CEO…not even a DR) who then called me and apologized but felt like he "had to try."  I am a mom, I am a care provider, I want you to be comfortable but I mostly want you to be alive. As someone who has given birth with and without epidural I realize how much relief it can provide BUT that relief has to be compared to possible risks and I can't make you a good candidate because a.) you know "people" b.) you have had one before c.) Dr. ABC and Dr. XYZ said it would be fine.  [/quote]

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