With childbirth approaching, you’re wondering about the different methods of pain relief. Do you know the difference between an epidural and a spinal anesthesia?

Epidural

An epidural is a regional anesthetic designed to create partial motor paralysis in laboring women. This technique is usually performed by an anesthetist. It involves inserting a needle and catheter into the lower back, between two vertebrae, to reach the epidural space in the spinal column. Once the catheter is firmly in place, the needle is withdrawn completely. The medication is then injected continuously or repeatedly. It will take about twenty minutes to complete the insertion, then another twenty minutes or so to feel the greatest relief.

The mother will feel a sensation of heaviness in her legs, sometimes accompanied by trembling. The need to urinate will also be altered. The nurse, at her bedside throughout the labor, will look after her and her baby’s well-being, throughout the procedure and afterwards.

Most women feel well relieved, but the epidural may be less effective and not provide sufficient relief. It doesn’t take the pressure off the baby as it moves down the pelvis towards the vulva. A perfect epidural means feeling a contraction set in without being accompanied by severe pain. It’s this balance that allows the mother to push instinctively and appropriately at the right moment.

Spinal Anesthesia

Spinal anesthesia goes deeper into the spinal cord than an epidural and provides an instant effect. It’s very popular when trying to soothe quickly and effectively. Spinal anesthesia is never continuous; it’s a single dose. It’s anesthesia that will numb the lower body, like an epidural, but it’s more effective for soothing pain. This is why doctors will choose it if they want quick and effective soothing, especially during a caesarian, because it has fewer undesirable effects than with general anesthesia (putting the mother under). The procedure is the same as an epidural, so the anesthetist can do it quickly and easily, and the mother is frozen faster and better while remaining alert and conscious of what is going on around her.

Depending on your medical history, you may not have access to these forms of analgesia. Your treating professional can then discuss other options with you.

Updated article : June 2024.