Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 1/27/2007

Question
I am scheduled to deliver my second child via c-section this feb. 15th. I am extremely nervous as I was told I am having a spinal and am worried that I won't be able to breath or that I will die. I am so nervous. I had an emergency c-section with my first child in 2004 and that time I had an epidural.. it was all so fast I didn't have time to be nervous. Any information to set my mind at ease would be GREATLY appreciate.
Sincerely,
A worried mom... Suzanne Sullivan

Answer
Hi Suzanne
Now then you had an epidural the first time and it was OK. A spinal anaesthetic is very similar but has many advantages. It works much quicker - so from the time of the injection in your back to being ready for the operation can be as little as 5 minutes. However normally we take a bit more time to make sure you are ready and to get your husband ready as well!
The experience should be much more controlled and relaxed than the last time as it will not be an emergency. You will have time to speak to your anaesthetist and I am sure they will help you along - just make sure that they know you are nervous about it all.
I am interested that you have a fear about not being able to breathe. Was it difficult the last time? It is a fact that once an epidural or spinal is working you can feel that your breathing is a little more difficult. This is because the muscles between your ribs become paralysed by the local anaesthetic and you will be using your diaphragm to do most of your breathing. As your diaphragm has to press down on yor tummy which is full of your uterus and baby this can make taking a deep breath feel difficult for some people. However the baby is soon delivered and this feeling then disappears. You can find info about spinal anaesthesia at http://www.rcoa.ac.uk/docs/ysa.pdf
You will be fine, remember you have been through it before and it is such a brilliant experience being awake to see the birth of your child rather than having a general anaesthetic.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson