What actually happens when you have an epidural

An epidural is a method of pain relief used for labour. Administered by an anaesthetist, it involves injecting medication into your lower back to numb specific nerves. Here's a detailed breakdown:

1. Preparation:

- You'll first have an intravenous (IV) drip inserted into your arm.

- Then, you'll be asked to sit down and lean forward or lie on your side with your knees up to your chest.

2. Local Anesthetic:

- The anaesthetist will clean your back and administer a local anaesthetic.

- Next, a thin plastic tube called an epidural catheter is gently inserted into your back.

3. Catheter Placement:

- The epidural catheter is positioned near the nerves in your spine.

- It remains in place even after the needle is removed.

4. Medication Delivery:

- Through the epidural catheter, you'll receive painkillers.

- These may include:

- Local anaesthetic to numb your nerves.

- Small doses of opioids for additional pain relief.

- A combination of both.

5. Activation Time:

- It takes approximately 20 minutes for the epidural to take effect.

- During this time, you'll need to stay still.

6. Continuous Monitoring:

- You'll have an IV line for fluids.

- Blood pressure and fetal monitoring will be continuous.

7. Effects on Labour:

- An epidural can prolong the pushing stage of labor.

- It may increase the likelihood of using a ventouse (suction cap on the baby's head) or forceps for delivery.

8. Side Effects:

- While epidurals can provide effective pain relief, they come with some side effects:

- Low blood pressure.

- Weakness in the legs during epidural administration.

- Difficulty urinating (may require a bladder catheter).

- Itchiness or slight fever.