Check firstCheck with your care teamTest or decision

Epidural and other labour pain relief

Pain-relief choices can include nonmedical support, inhaled gas, systemic medicine, epidural or spinal techniques, depending on the setting and your health.

Direct guidance

What to know or do

Ask what is available, how quickly it can be given, likely effects and side effects, and whether any condition or medicine changes your options.

What changes the answer

  • Whether this is screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment or birth planning
  • Pregnancy week, previous results and what the result could change
  • Benefits, limits, alternatives, follow-up and the time available to decide

Check with your care team

When to get individual help

Check the exact item or situation with a doctor, midwife, pharmacist or relevant clinician; the name of a broad category is not enough for a personal decision.