Pain

What is an epidural?
The epidural space is a very narrow space that is situated immediately outside the spinal fluid.

How long does an epidural work?
The anaesthetist can decide how long an epidural should be effective.

Is an epidural safe?
An epidural is a very safe anaesthetic technique and serious complications are rare.

Possible side-effects and complications
Complications include blood pressure drop, sedation and headaches.

Questions and answers about epidural analgesia
Here our expert answers questions that are frequently asked about epidural anaesthesia.

How does an epidural work?
This section describes how epidurals work.

How is an epidural injection done?
Having an epidural is not really painful. Patients report that it feels “strange”, like a pressure in the back. This section describes the method involved.

Can I get out of bed?
Depending on the concentration of the local anaesthetic used for the epidural pain relief, one will have control over the muscles in the legs or not.

What are the advantages of epidurals?
Advantages include pain relief, easier breathing and decrease in general stress response.