I was surprised to see the statement that demerol isn't used in the U.S.
anymore, as it was in both my first and third births (15 and 4.5 years ago,
in Indiana and Texas).  I had either stadol or demerol in the IV line with
both of those births.  Just enough to take the very peak off the pain of the
contractions, so that I could hold it together mentally (well, almost).  The
thought of anyone getting anywhere near my spinal cord with a needle would
be enough to make me run screaming from the hospital!  The third child had
three ultrasounds as well.  Neither child had any trouble nursing, and both
are brilliant (she says modestly).  The middle child was the one with no
medications and no ultrasounds, but Down Syndrome.  He is also brilliant, in
his own special way!


Kathy D.