Any experience of Remifentanil during labour?

[JF198]

I am 30 weeks pregnant and had an appointment with an anaesthetist today to discuss pain relief during labour. I had spinal surgery at age 12 and I have been advised that they may not be able to administer an epidural. They have suggested that it would be safer for me to have Remifentinal during a natural birth or a general anaesthetic if I need a c section. I am a bit concerned as I hadn't heard of this until today so I wondered if anyone has any experience of it? Thanks!

[Cheekymonkey85]

I did not have personal experience but was told about it at one of the bump birth & beyond classes led by the midwives. I'd never heard of it either but it's apparently the strongest pain relief you can have during labour & becoming more popular at our trust.

We were told it can make you a bit out of it, but I guess as with all pain relief everyone reacts differently.

I'd probably have a chat with your midwife & ask about her opinions because they've seen it all really haven't they so will be able to explain it better x

[JF198 in reply to Cheekymonkey85]

Thank you! Yes I will discuss with my midwife next week x

[Rbh2]

I had it with my second baby and really recommend it! I had it through a drip in my arm and had a button to press so I could control it myself. It spaces you out whilst the contraction is going on but wears off very quickly so you feel normal between contractions. It's a synthetic morphine so doesn't have the side effects like nausea/vomiting and making baby drowsy when they are born. Will definitely have it again if I need it this time.

Hope that helps.

[JF198 in reply to Rbh2]

Thank you! Thats really useful info and makes me feel a bit better! x