Epidural anesthesia is a medical procedure used to provide pain relief during childbirth and certain surgeries. It involves injecting a local anesthetic into the epidural space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord. This numbs the lower part of the body, allowing patients to remain awake and alert while minimizing pain. The procedure is typically performed by an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. A thin catheter may be placed in the epidural space to allow for continuous medication delivery. Epidural anesthesia is considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects.