Epidural Analgesia

Important information:

What is an epidural?

The word epidural refers to a space in part of the back or spine where the pain medicine is given. The word analgesia means pain relief. Studies show that epidural analgesia provides excellent pain control for children. Children often need less pain medicine when we use epidural analgesia. Children with good pain control tend to have a faster recovery.

 How does it work?

A tiny catheter (tube) is placed is placed in the space outside the spinal cord where nerve bundles are located. The medicines used with epidurals stop pain signals from traveling from your spine to your brain. The epidural catheter is connected to a pump that constantly delivers pain medicine (see picture).

For a continuous epidural, medicine is sent through a tube into the space outside the spinal cord. The exact location may differ in babies. Your team will discuss the best and safest option for your child.

What kind of medicine is used?

The most common medicine is a local anesthetic, like the numbing medicine used at the dentist. Sometimes a narcotic (opioid) medicine is mixed in. Your child may still need other pain medications while the epidural is in place.

Will the epidural make all the pain go away?

No, but your child should feel comfortable enough to move around. It may be possible for your child to leave the bed with the help of a nurse. If you think the medicine is not working well, tell your child’s nurse, nurse practitioner or doctor.

Does the epidural hurt?

No, the epidural catheter is placed when your child is asleep in the operating room. Your child will not feel the epidural catheter while it is in place or when it is removed. 

How long will my child need to use the epidural?

The epidural catheter will usually stay in place for 2 to 3 days, but in some cases may be needed for up to 6 days. After it is removed, your child may still take pain medicine to help them feel comfortable. 

If you have any questions about epidural pain analgesia or pain relief, please speak with your healthcare team.

Reviewed March 2024 by Keara Bradley, CRNP, Michele Bythrow, CRNP, Maureen Scollon-McCarthy, CRNP