What is a spinal anesthetic?
A spinal anesthetic is a single injection of medication in the lower back. The medication is injected by a very small needle directly into the spinal fluid where it spreads out to affect the nerves that go to your lower body. A spinal anesthetic is often used as a complete anesthetic for C-sections. However, the dose and type of medication can be changed to act as a pain reliever during labor. Labor spinal anesthesia provides almost immediate pain relief, but only last about two hours. A spinal anesthetic may be a good choice for you if you are almost ready to deliver and need urgent pain relief. A combined spinal/epidural anesthetic is another option. The initial dose of medication is given through the spinal needle for fast pain relief and then an epidural catheter is inserted for extended pain management.
