Does anaesthesiology perform an epidural?

An anaesthesiologist is a doctor trained to give anaesthesia, manage pain and monitor breathing, blood pressure and other body functions. For an epidural, they clean the lower back, numb the skin, guide a needle into the epidural space and leave a fine catheter in place. Medicine can then be given through the catheter while the anaesthesiologist and maternity team monitor you.

You remain awake, but the lower body may feel heavy or numb. The team adjusts medication to balance pain relief with movement and pushing needs. The catheter is removed after it is no longer required.

Tell the team about allergies, medicines that affect bleeding, back problems, previous anaesthesia experiences and any infection or illness. You will need to stay still and curl forward while it is placed, even during contractions. Ask how monitoring works, what sensations to expect, and how long numbness may last. Follow instructions about fluids, food and movement.

During or after an epidural, report difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, new weakness, rapidly worsening numbness, severe headache when sitting or standing, fever, or pain and redness at the insertion site. After discharge, seek urgent assessment for loss of bladder or bowel control, inability to move a leg, or severe back pain with fever.

Ask whether an epidural is suitable for you, which medicines you take may affect timing, how pain relief will be topped up, and what monitoring is needed. Clarify who to call if symptoms continue after the catheter is removed.