Is it ever too late for an intrathecal?
An intrathecal can be administered later in labor than an epidural. But your labor may be progressing so quickly (particularly after multiple children) that there might not be enough time to give the intrathecal. If it is given just before delivery, the baby might be born sedated or with slower vital signs. Then medication might have to be given to the baby to counteract the narcotics. So intrathecals are usually administered early and when it looks like there will be some time before the actual delivery.
