Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 2/22/2005

Question
Dear Dr. Jackson,

Hi, my name is Sarajane and I am 27 weeks pregnant. I am thinking about opting for an epidural to relieve labor pains. I am quite thin. However, my spine is not obvious and in fact quite hidden. Will this make it difficult or even impossible for the anesthesiologist to locate my epidural space and thus unable to give me an epidural? I am afraid I cannot get one during labor because of my very hidden spine and vertebrae (which I can hardly feel them myself).

Thank you very much for taking the time to read my question.

Answer
Sarajane

Please don't worry. We usually manage to provide epidurals even for the largest of pregnant women where nothing can be felt in the back.

It shouldn't be a problem. I wish you all the best with the rest of your pregnancy and hope your delivery goes well.

Dr Ian Jackson