How to give an epidural?
Intravenous (IV) fluids will be given before active labor begins and prior to the procedure of placing the epidural. You will be given 2 liters of IV fluids throughout labor and delivery. An anesthesiologist (specialize in administering anesthesia), an obstetrician or nurse anesthetist will give you your epidural.
You will have to arch your back and remain still while lying on your left side or sitting up. This position is important for avoiding problems and increasing epidural effectiveness. An antiseptic solution will be used to clean the waistline area of your mid-back to reduce the chance of infection. A small part of your back will be injected with a local anesthetic to numb it. A needle is then put into the numbed area surrounding the spinal cord in the lower back.
After that, a small tube or catheter is inserted through the needle into the epidural space. The needle is then carefully removed, leaving the catheter in place to provide medication either through periodic injections or by continuous infusion. The catheter is taped to the back to prevent it from slipping out.
You will begin to observe the numbing effect about 10 to 20 minutes after the first dose of the drug, though the nerves in your uterus will begin to go numb within a few minutes. You’ll be given continuous doses of medication through the catheter for the rest of your labor.