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The epidural uses a gentle mix of two drugs, a local anaesthetic to numb the lower body and a mild opioid to reduce pain.
It’s given through a thin plastic tube (called a catheter) that stays in your lower back.
The catheter sends the medicine to your spine, where it blocks pain signals going to your brain.
You still feel some pressure during labour but not the sharp pain of contractions.
How Does It Help During Childbirth
Epidurals can:- Ease the pain from contractions
- Make you more relaxed, helping to lower your heart rate and blood pressure
- Help you remain alert and conscious during labour
- Give your body a break if labour is long or exhausting
- Help with emergency C-sections without making you unconscious
How Might It Feel to Receive an Epidural
Here’s how it usually goes:- You’ll first get a small injection to numb your lower back. You may notice a short, sharp sting, similar to a pinch
- You’ll feel a bit of pressure as the needle and catheter are placed, but no pain
- It usually takes 10 to 15 minutes for the area to feel numb once it’s in
- You’ll still be able to move your legs a bit, but walking won’t be safe because your legs may feel weak or tingly
When Can You Get It
You can ask for an epidural any time during labour, as long as you can stay still for a few minutes while it’s given.There’s no rule that says you must wait until you're a certain number of centimetres dilated.
Even if you’re already at 10 cm, in some cases it can still be done, but not always, especially if the baby is almost out.
Is It Safe to Use an Epidural
Epidurals are considered very safe, especially when given by trained doctors. But, as with any medical treatment, there are a few minor risks:Drop in blood pressure: This is common but is watched closely. If needed, it’s treated right away
Itchy skin or shivering: These are mild side effects that go away quickly
Headache (spinal headache): This happens in less than 1% of cases and can be treated if needed
Nerve pain or numbness: Very rare and usually temporary
Back pain: Most people feel sore from labour itself, not from the epidural
Important note: The idea that epidurals cause long-term back pain is a myth. It’s the hard work of labour that’s usually responsible for any soreness you feel afterwards.
Does It Harm the Baby
Not really. Only a tiny bit of the medicine could get to the baby. Since it’s not going into your blood, it’s safer than many other pain medicines. Your baby's heart rate and your blood pressure will be monitored to make sure all is well.What About Walking or Moving Around
The epidural can make your legs feel numb, which means you won’t be able to move around on your feet. But you can:- Shift positions in bed
- Sit upright
- Use different labouring positions in bed for comfort
Has the Epidural Changed Over the Years
Yes, and for the better.- Today’s epidurals use lower doses of medicine
- You won’t feel as numb as people did years ago
- You can press a button to get a little more medicine if you need it (your doctor sets a safe limit for how much)
Will It Increase the Chances of Needing a C-section
No, choosing an epidural doesn’t mean you’re more likely to have a C-section.Earlier, stronger doses sometimes led to more assisted births (like using a vacuum or forceps). But now, with lower doses, that risk has gone down too.
Epidurals can be a great option if you want help managing the pain of labour. They’re safe, flexible, and allow you to stay awake and involved during childbirth. Whether you choose to get one or not, what matters most is that you feel empowered and informed about your body and your choices.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general information only. Always talk to your doctor or anaesthetist to understand what’s best for your health and pregnancy.
FAQs on Epidurals During Childbirth: What You Should Know Before Saying Yes or No
- Can I have a natural birth even if I get an epidural?
Yes! An epidural doesn’t stop you from pushing or having a vaginal birth. - What if the epidural doesn’t work properly?
Sometimes the pain relief might not be even on both sides. If that happens, your doctor can adjust or redo the epidural. - Will it hurt my chances of bonding with the baby?
No. You’ll be awake, aware, and able to hold your baby right after birth if everything else goes well. - Can I eat or drink after getting an epidural?
You might be limited to clear fluids, depending on how your labour is progressing. Your midwife or doctor will guide you. - Can I refuse the epidural if I don’t want it?
Yes. It’s your choice, always. No one will force you. And you can always ask for it later if you change your mind.
