Which type of anesthetic is injected into the epidural space and commonly used during labor?

The type of anesthetic injected into the epidural space during labor is commonly referred to as an epidural anesthetic. This method provides pain relief specifically in the lower body while allowing the mother to remain conscious and participate in the birthing process. By delivering the anesthetic into the epidural space, the medication can block nerve impulses from the pelvis and lower body, which alleviates the sensation of pain during contractions and delivery.

Epidural anesthesia is favored during labor because it offers targeted pain control and can be adjusted based on the mother's needs. The effects can also be maintained over an extended period, which is particularly beneficial during labor that may take several hours.

In contrast, general anesthesia induces a temporary loss of consciousness and sensation throughout the entire body, which is typically not used for labor due to the risks it poses to both the mother and baby. Local anesthesia often targets a specific area, usually for minor surgical procedures, rather than providing the extensive pain relief needed during childbirth. Spinal anesthesia, while also providing numbing in the lower body, is injected into the cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal canal rather than the epidural space, making it a different technique than epidural anesthesia.