An epidural is a very effective form of pain relief that involves injecting anaesthetic drugs into the small of your back via a very fine tube. The anaesthetic has the action of numbing the area from the waist down, which means, generally speaking, you will not feel any further pain.

An epidural can be administered at any point during labour, but it is usually given when the cervix is around 5cm dilated and the contractions are becoming stronger. The procedure is carried out by an anaesthetist but, once in place, the epidural can be topped up by either a midwife or an automatic pump that will continuously deliver the drugs into your back.

There are clear advantages to having an epidural. If administered correctly, it is a relatively quick procedure and provides excellent pain relief. While some women can still feel some sensation of a contraction, they will not feel any actual pain.

Additionally, unlike some forms of pain relief, the epidural will allow you to remain clear headed and more in control of your labour and birth.



There are, of course, some disadvantages. A small number of women will find that the epidural does not work as effectively as it could and will experience numbness in some areas but not others, meaning they can still feel pain. It is also known to slow down labour, and women who choose an epidural are more likely to need an assisted birth.

Additionally, because an epidural numbs from the waist down, you will be unable to move around the room, which some women find frustrating. However, some hospitals are now offering 'walking epidurals'. These offer the same excellent pain relief as well as the ability to feel sensation in your legs, allowing for greater mobility during your labour and birth.



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