Epidural Removal Concerns After C-Section & Cerclage

Question
After my last c-section in 2002 my epidural fell out after the surgery.  No big deal since the surgery was over, but my OB likes to keep them in for 2 or 3 days for pain relief in the hospital.  I have a cerclage this time around and the OB plans to give me my epidural, take out my stitches (cerclages) and THEN do my repeat c-section.  I am worried with all that moving around the epidural may come out before the surgery starts.  Last time I did not even know it came out, I just felt some wetness on my back.  Is it wise for the OB to be putting me in stirrups, removing the cerclage, etc with the epidural already in place and THEN do the c-section?  I am so scared it's gonna come out and then I may feel the scalpel!

Answer
Once the epidural has been given, it should not come out, even if the catheter comes out. It should last for, at least, two hours which is enough time for the procedures that your doctor needs to do. The cerclage can, of course, be removed without any anesthesia and then you can get the epidural prior to the cesarean section. You will have to discuss it with your doctor as to the doctor's preference. However, even if the catheter falls out, it should not effect your anesthesia during the procedure or the cesarean.