EBB 317 - Evidence on Epidurals for Pain Management during Labor
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Jun 26, 2024
Curious about pain relief during labor? This discussion dives deep into the effectiveness of epidurals, spinals, and combined techniques. Learn about the latest research, including a pivotal study from Scotland that's making waves. Discover the benefits and risks of these methods, as well as alternative pain relief options. The conversation also highlights disparities in access to care and emphasizes the importance of informed consent, ensuring expecting families are well-equipped for their childbirth decisions.
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Regional Analgesia
Epidurals, spinals, and combined spinal-epidurals (CSEs) are pain management methods for labor.
They are called regional analgesics because they numb a body region.
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Regional Analgesia Prevalence
Over 70% of U.S. births use regional analgesia, higher than other developed countries.
England's rate is 20-30%, Netherlands 30%, Sweden 45%, Ireland 65%.
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Epidural Procedure
An epidural places a catheter in the lower back, below the spinal cord.
It numbs the lower body; leg movement depends on dosage and individual reaction.
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Have you ever wondered what the evidence is on epidurals for pain management during labor? Join us on today’s podcast as we discuss most recent evidence on epidurals, spinals, and combined spinal-epidurals! We’ll begin with some background on these methods, including how common they are in the U.S. and around the world, before moving on to the effectiveness, benefits, and risks for use during labor. We’ll also talk about alternative methods of pain relief during labor, and share recommendations from professional healthcare organizations. [Bonus addition to the podcast at 20:00: We talk about the study on epidurals out of Scotland [Kearns et al. 2024] that is generating lots of news headlines!] Join us to learn more about pain relief options during labor! Content Note: Topics related to epidural use, how they’re provided (including needles and catheters), and the benefits and risks of this intervention. Discussion of assisted vaginal delivery (forceps and vacuum deliveries), severe maternal complications, surgery, perineal tears, and postpartum depression. References:
To access all the scientific references that go along with this episode, visit our blog article here.
Access the rest of our EBB Pain Management series go to this page and click on “Pain Management Series.”
Check out the EBB Pocket Guide to Comfort Measures here.
For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.