The epidural (confused)

Hector33

I always thought that because of the local you get prior to the epidural eliminates the pain associated with epidural being adminstered. I was talking to someone yesterday who had an epidural a few weeks ago who said that the epidural still hurt a lot. Can someone please explain to me how an epidural works?

jessiedee13

It helps to dull the pain. For some people it eliminates it, but not all. My friend recently had a c section and said she just felt the local injection. I felt all my pokes. I wouldn't call it "pain" but it sure didn't tickle either. The local hurt more for me than the actual spinal. That's just my experience and I'm not sure that's the answer you're looking for, but I hope it helps

SLGILL1978

I didn't feel the epidural. It just felt cold when they put it in. I did feel the numbing meds prior. It was a few second burning sensation. 

princesslockness

I felt the local, just like a shot. 

When they put the actual epi in, I felt it, but it was more pressure until it hit the nerve. That was a jolt/shock.

jerseygirl227

SLGILL1978 said:

I didn't feel the epidural. It just felt cold when they put it in. I did feel the numbing meds prior. It was a few second burning sensation. 

Kate08Young said:

I felt the local, just like a shot. 

When they put the actual epi in, I felt it, but it was more pressure until it hit the nerve. That was a jolt/shock.

Similar feelings here.  It hurts a bit, but goes away quick.  Then you don't feel a thing for hours.

Tangelyy

I was having major contractions at the time the epidural was given to me. Four years ago. But now all I remember is my left leg kicking up and If I'm correct feeling something cool.
When shots are given to me it helps to breath out through your mouth.
Hope this somewhat helps.

criticalaccess

The local hurt, the actual catheter going in did not. It felt sort of like when you bump your funny bone but in your back.

They put a needle in that's covered by a flexible piece which is the catheter in your spinal area (idk the specific placement back there). The needle is removed & the catheter stays in place. It's just like having an IV in your arm.