Epidural Guide
A detailed guide on childbirth stages, medical procedures, and preparation strategies.
Guide Overview
An epidural is the most common form of pain relief used during labor. It is a regional anesthetic administered through a tiny catheter inserted into the epidural space of your lower back, numbing the nerves that transmit pain from the uterus.
Key Milestones & Critical Information
Review these key milestones and procedures related to epidural guide to help set expectations for your delivery.
Administration Process
You sit and arch your back while an anesthesiologist sterilizes the area, numbs the skin, inserts a needle, and slides a tiny catheter through it before removing the needle.
Pain Relief & Sensation
Within 10-20 minutes, you will feel significant pain relief in your lower body. You will still feel pressure and can move your legs slightly, but the sharp contraction pain is blocked.
Potential Side Effects
Can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, shivering, itchiness, or a localized backache. You will also require an IV line, a urinary catheter, and fetal monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting an epidural hurt?
The anesthesiologist will use a local numbing medication on your skin first, which feels like a quick pinch or sting. The actual insertion of the epidural needle feels like pressure or a dull ache, rather than sharp pain.
Can an epidural slow down labor?
It can sometimes lengthen the second stage of labor (pushing) by reducing the natural urge to push. However, it does not significantly increase the rate of C-sections.
When is it too late to get an epidural?
Generally, you can get an epidural at any point during active labor as long as you are able to sit completely still (about 5-10 minutes) for the insertion. It is usually too late when the baby's head is crowning.