epidural anesthesia
Quick Summary
Epidural anesthesia involves injecting a local anesthetic into the space outside the dura mater in the lower back. This procedure is commonly used to manage labor pain in the United States. It works by preventing nerve impulses, numbing a specific area of the body while allowing the patient to remain conscious.12
Pioneered by physician Gertie F. Marx, epidural injections were developed to ease childbirth pain and were considered safer than general sedation for both mother and baby. While some concerns existed about slowing labor, the safety of the procedure was proven. Epidural anesthesia can be extended if a cesarean delivery becomes necessary.32
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
