An epidural is a type of anaesthetic (medication which stops pain and feeling) that makes your lower body numb without putting you to sleep. It is often used during labour and birth so the woman can stay awake but not feel the pain of the birth.

 

The anaesthetic medicine is injected into the epidural space (the area surrounding the spinal cord) in the lower back by an anaesthetist (a doctor specialised in giving anaesthetics). The area of skin where the injection goes in will be made numb first. The lower half of your body will become numb and generally women cannot walk around but most can still push to birth the baby. After the birth you will need to remain in bed until the anaesthetic has worn off which usually takes about two to four hours.

 

An epidural anaesthetic can be used for a vaginal or caesarean delivery.