Epidurals and spinals
The history of epidurals
Availability of epidurals
Different types of epidurals
Reasons for an epidural
Why an epidural may not be recommended
What is involved with an epidural?
Things to consider for an epidural
Women's experiences of epidurals
Epidural support strategies
Epidurals in Australia
An epidural anaesthetic is an injection of medication(s) (administered by an
anaesthetist doctor), into the 'epidural space', usually into the lower (or 'lumbar') area of the spine. The epidural space is a 'potential' space that can be expanded up to about 4mm in width. The space surrounds the spinal cord and is located just outside a layer of tissue called the 'dura mater'. The dura mater tissue encases the spinal cord and spinal fluid. Large nerves that transmit pain, heat and touch sensations, enter and leave the spinal cord via the epidural space.
Epidurals are a form of what is called 'regional anaesthesia'. This means they are aimed at preventing pain sensations (and to a degree, touch and temperature sensations) from being felt in a 'region' of the body. An epidural affects the lower region of the body. The medications injected into the epidural space during labour, are intended to prevent pain being felt by the woman. An epidural is often referred to as an 'epidural block' (or an 'EDB'), as they work by 'blocking' pain sensations.
There are two main types of medications used for epidurals: