Spinal block

A spinal block is typically used to block pain during a C-section. However, a spinal block can be used to relieve pain if delivery is expected shortly or if forceps or vacuum extraction is needed.

During a spinal block, the medication is injected into the fluid below the spinal cord in the lower back. It takes effect quickly. It can provide only a couple of hours of pain relief. A spinal block given during epidural placement is called a combined spinal-epidural block.