How is an epidural catheter placed?
If you choose to have an epidural anesthetic, the anesthesiologist will ask you to curl up on your side or sit up with your knees bent and head down. These positions curve your lower back and separate the bones in your spine. The anesthesiologist will wash your back off with antiseptic and then inject a local anesthetic to numb the small area where the epidural will be placed. The anesthesiologist will ask you to do your best not to move at this point. A needle is placed in your lower back (between the bones) and the catheter is inserted through the needle. You may feel a brief tingling sensation down one leg during this process. The needle is then removed and the epidural catheter is taped to your back. After delivery, the epidural catheter is removed and the numbness wears off over a few hours.
