An epidural is a form of regional anesthesia in which medication is delivered into the epidural space near the spinal nerves to reduce pain, particularly during labor or surgery.
During labor, an epidural provides effective pain relief while allowing the mother to remain awake and participate in childbirth. The medication blocks pain signals traveling from the lower body to the brain without causing complete loss of consciousness.
An epidural is different from general anesthesia, which produces unconsciousness, and from a spinal anesthetic, in which medication is injected into the cerebrospinal fluid.
QUICK FACT
An epidural provides regional rather than complete-body anesthesia; the person generally remains conscious. If used during labor, an epidural relieves pain but does not put the mother or baby to sleep.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Spinal anesthesia: A spinal anesthetic is injected directly into cerebrospinal fluid and is usually given as a single injection, whereas an epidural uses a catheter that allows medication to be adjusted throughout labor. Spinal anesthesia is commonly used for cesarean sections.
- General anesthesia: produces unconsciousness and affects the whole body.
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