Yes, and it’s a very similar process as when baby is in a head first position.

It’s called a spinal anesthetic. It’s put in the very same way but it works instantly and gives complete numbness. The epidural takes about 20 mins to be fully effective and you aren’t completely numb.

In the video below, our expert midwife Jean explains how an epidural is administered, how it works and why you may need it.

Our full-day online Antenatal Class covers coping mechanisms and pain relief options during labour and birth. For more information: