What does an epidural actually feel like?

Like an injection: The epidural injection is often done with some mild sedation so there should not be significant pain or discomfort during the procedure. When the needle is introduced or the medication is injected, you may feel increased pain in your extremity which is usually temporary. The medication may take up to 1 week to take effect and decrease your pain.

Placement: Of the epidural is relatively painless; a bug bite of local anesthesia in your back, possibly a mild electric shock. The medication can diminish nerve function on a continuum from minimal changes to completely numb and motionless, depending on the goal.