Epidural anesthesia involves the insertion of a sterile guide needle and a small tube (epidural catheter) into the space between the spinal cord and outer membrane of the spinal cord (epidural space). The epidural catheter is placed at or below the waist. Then the guide needle is inserted and removed, while the catheter remains in place. The catheter is taped in place up the center of your back with the end taped in place on top of your shoulder.

An anesthetic medication is injected into the catheter to numb your body below the insertion site. The amount of discomfort or pain that you have depends on the amount of anesthetic used. Less anesthetic (often called a light epidural) will allow you to be more active in your labor and feel enough to push effectively. With higher levels of anesthetic, you will feel little or no pain from your contractions. You may be required to remain in bed when an epidural is used.

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