Epidural with herniated disk?? Is it possible?

I have a herniated disk in my lower lumbar (not exactly sure what space but I think it's L2).  Subsequently I have chronic low back pain and sciatica.  This is my first child and I am going to try to do in natural with out anesthia.  However, I am not nieve and not 100% against pain meds if needed so I would like an epidural if I decide at the time I need one.  But does anyone know if you can get an epidural if you have a herniated disk?  What dural space do they normally place one?  I would hate to make my back problems worse by getting one!

As a side note....what do you all think of the name Shaelyn for a girl?

[Liza55]

Name's cute. You can get an epidural w/out worsening your current problem, but you do need to let the anesthesiologist know as soon as possible. He can then feel your back and let you know if he forsees any problems.

[happymom3]

I agree, I didn't think it would be a problem either to get one. I think it was about bra line where it went in if I'm not mistaken.

Cute name:)

[sheddybear]

The bra line really?  I didn't realize it went that high.  If that's the case it shouldn't be a problem b/c my problem is my low back just above my hips.  But I'll be sure to have an anesthesia consult at the hospital to make sure.

[sherryroberson]

I have the exact same thing!! It hurts to the touch there! I never thought about it affecting the epidural. I hope every1 is right then!
oh and i like the name!

[sheddybear]

Well, the reason I got concerned was b/c my doctor told me I'd have to make sure w/ the anesthesioligist that I could get an epidural.  Maybe they were just being cautious.

[AndiJ78]

I have an L4/5 herniation and have had an epi placed for all three of my deliveries. Mine wasn't quite as high as the bra line as someone mentioned, but certainly did not cause any issues with my low back. If anything, it was nice when I had it and actually used it with my first born to not have the back pain that has plagued my for so many years ; )

Just to be on the safe side, make sure you mention it to the doc before they place the epidural. Also, check and see if the hospital offers classes with regards to the various types of pain control. They can be quite informative for first timers.

Andi