Epidural
analgesia minimally lengthens labor and does not increase the risk of
cesarean delivery
Patients receiving epidural analgesia have longer
labors when compared to women receiving I.V method of childbirth
pain relief. Numerous studies have shown that the difference is approximately
one hour on an average. However, this may be highly variable depending on your
labor pattern.
Epidural analgesia does
not increase the risk of cesarean delivery. Randomized clinical trials
present powerful evidence that there is no added risk of cesarean
delivery owing to epidural analgesia.
The relationship between epidural analgesia and forceps
deliveries is complex. Some studies have shown more forceps
deliveries in patients with epidurals while others have not. This may be
highly dependent on practice style and preferences of your own
obstetrician.
Patient satisfaction
and neonatal outcome are better after epidural than I.V method of childbirth pain relief.
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