The stronger the epidural, the less feeling (and ability!) you will have. An epidural can be very mild or larger amounts of the drug can be administered for a higher level of pain relief. The higher the analgesic effects, the higher the side effects and the risks are likely to be.

How is it administered?
An epidural should only be administered when you are in active labour. Before the procedure begins, an intravenous drip will be started and you will be given a litre of fluid via the drip to counteract a possible drop in your blood pressure. This protects you and your baby and means you have a vein open should you need any emergency drugs. This will remain in place throughout your labour and birth.

You will lie on your side in a curled up position, or sit up and lean over so that the vertebrae open up for the epidural needle to get through. Before inserting the epidural needle, the anaesthetist gives a local anaesthetic injection into the area. This will burn slightly and is probably the last thing you will feel. The epidural needle will be placed slowly and carefully between two vertebrae in the lower back around about hip height (or higher for a caesarean section). If it is administered during labour, it is applied between contractions because you need to keep absolutely still.

The anaesthetic is introduced through a fine tube (catheter) into the epidural space. This procedure should not be painful. Mothers often liken the sensation to being filled with cold water. It takes effect between 3 and 10 minutes and you should feel the full effect within 20 to 30 minutes. Your bladder is emptied via a urinary catheter, which may increase your chances of a urinary tract infection.

Does it help or hinder labour?