An epidural is a local anaesthetic that provides pain relief during labour.
The procedure is carried out by an experienced anaesthetist. Epidurals can be a very effective method of pain relief, and usually do not affect your ability to feel the pushing sensations during the final stage of labour.
A catheter (a thin tube) is inserted into the lower back and releases local anaesthetic into the space around the spinal cord, causing the nerves to become numb. It relieves the pain of contractions, although you will still be able to feel a touch on your skin. The effects of the epidural generally last for about two to four hours but can be 'topped up' as needed via a small pump that delivers the anaesthetic at regular intervals.
Some women experience a drop in blood pressure when they have an epidural. This is managed by using an inravenous drip to provide plenty of fluids directly into a vein. Sometimes the needle from the epidural accidentally pierces the dura (the membrane that holds the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord). If too much fluid leaks through this piercing, the pressure in the rest of the fluid is reduced. When the pressure around your brain is reduced, you will experience headache symptoms that typically occur between one day and one week after having the epidural.
The hole in the dura will usually mend itself after a few days or weeks. Severe headaches can be treated by an epidural 'blood patch' where the anaesthetist injects some of your blood to form a clot to block the hole in the dura. The procedure is carried out in a similar way to an epidural. It is recommended that you lie down for as long as possible and avoid any heavy lifting after having a blood patch, and you will normally notice the difference within 24 hours.
May 2011 | 
Hypnotherapy
