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We explore epidurals in childbirth, examining what they are, their risks, and why unmedicated birth options deserve equal consideration in your birth plan.

• Epidurals are regional anesthesia using local anesthetics and opioids to block pain signals from the waist down
• Research shows epidurals can slow labor progression, especially during the pushing phase by up to 90 minutes
• Associated with higher likelihood of requiring vacuum extraction or forceps during delivery
• Can contribute to a cascade of interventions including Pitocin, continuous monitoring, and potentially C-section
• Side effects include maternal hypotension in 14-33% of cases, which can reduce blood flow to the placenta
• Rare complications include post-dural puncture headaches and nerve damage
• Can cause maternal fever (15% higher risk), potentially leading to unnecessary antibiotic treatment for baby
• May affect baby's alertness and rooting reflexes, creating challenges with early breastfeeding
• Despite risks, epidurals have benefits including pain relief, stress reduction, and making complicated labors manageable
• Create a "moment of crisis plan" to determine your first step when you need help during labor

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Links to research: 

Epidurals effect on second stage of labor -https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24499753/

Epidurals effects on vacuum or forceps use in birth -https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6494646/

Reducted risk of cesarean delivery with discontinuation of pitocin in active labor   - https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(25)00161-9/fulltext

Epidurals and maternal fever -  https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(22)00480-X/fulltext

Epidurals and early breastfeeding difficulty -  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501222/

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