I found some info for you on the mobile epis after we were talking this morning...this explains it much better than i did lol
[h4]Traditional epidurals [/h4]
Epidurals have been used during childbirth for over twenty years. Traditionally, epidurals use a very strong anaesthetic which numbs the lower half of the body, leaving mothers with little or no sensation or muscle control. Because of this, labour can be longer and more medical intervention may be required, such as forceps or ventouse deliveries. However, in the mid-nineties the mobile epidural was brought into practice and its use has increased over the last decade.
[h4]Mobile epidurals [/h4]
The mobile epidural works in the same way as the traditional epidural but the main difference is the drugs which are administered. Mobile epidurals use a much lower dose of analgesia, such as bupivicaine, given in combination with a pain killing medication similar to morphine, such as fentanyl. These are known as mobile epidurals because nerves to the bladder, abdominal and leg muscles are not totally blocked, and you can move about, sit up, empty your bladder without a urinary catheter and deliver your baby vaginally.
The effect of a mobile epidural lasts for about 2 hours, after which time your midwife can give you a top up dose of analgesia and painkillers. Alternatively, you may be able to control how much you get by using a special pump called patient controlled analgesia (PCA). This works by pressing a small button which then tops up the epidural. There may be some tingling in your legs during a mobile epidural and you will probably need some help to get around but the main difference is that you will have the maximum pain relief with the minimum numbness, allowing you to push during the final stages of labour and thus reducing the risk of medical intervention.
I was able to sit up and feel when to push with mine, just didnt have any pain, was fab
and after delivery i was able to walk (with the help of Jase) to go to the loo and have a shower pretty much right away, i didnt have to wait for it to wear off. I think most hospitals do mobile epis now but its worth asking to check.
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