Were you aware that beyond the standard epidural, there is an additional medication option for managing pain during childbirth? Today, Dr. Dekker discusses another common option, intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) opioids. Dr. Dekker explains the different types of injectable opioids available during labor, how they work, and the current evidence that you need to know to make an informed decision. Plus, learn about the benefits and risks of IV opioids for pain relief labor and an in-depth look at one opioid in particular: Remifentanil, which is commonly given through a “Patient-Controlled Analgesia” or PCA pump.

• EBB Pocket Guide to Interventions (https://ebbirth.com/shop)
• EBB Pocket Guide to Comfort Measures (https://ebbirth.com/shop)
• More YouTube videos mentioning IV Opioids among other options:
  • Pain Management During Labor, Regional Anesthesia - Maternity Nursing
  • Anesthesia Options for Labor & Delivery
• Prescribing Guidelines for Pregnant Patients with Opioid Use Disorder
• Narcotics for Pain During Childbirth

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.

References:

• To access all the scientific references that go along with this episode, visit our blog post here.