Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 12/12/2007

Question
hi, i am currently pregnant with my second child, and am worried about when i go into labour.
with my first daughter the anesthesiologist went to give me and epidural but said they wouldnt give me one because of the small dimple i have on my lower back, i looked it up on the internet and it looks like a sacral dimple!
i really wanted to know what could happen if i had an epidural. and any other advice or info you could give me.

Answer
Hi Shannon
As you are obviously young fit and have full function of your legs then I your think your dimple is totally a red herring and should not be a contra indication to having an epidural. Ask to see an anaesthetist now so you can meet and discuss this issue and agree what is best for your pain relief in labour. Do not wait until you need the services of an anaesthetist - as if this happens at night then it may be a trainee who again may be very hesitant. I have to say I have never refused a patient an epidural for this reason and had to check on the net also for what it meant! In reality it is just naming differences between UK and the USA.
I hope this helps
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson