Experience of using epidural labour analgesia in developing countries: effects to feotus and mother

Background: Epidural analgesia is regarded one of the one techniques used to relieve pains associated with labor among women used and recommended by many among the 21st century modern obstetric practitioners. The technique has advantages and disadvantages but also there is myth surrounding the practice such as its impact towards the mother and the baby. Objectives: The major objective of this study was to investigate and assess the effect(s) of epidural analgesia in regard to labor progress, baby, mother and the mode of delivery. The study further aimed at finding out complications associated with the technique in regard to neonate and the effect of the practice in regard to APGAR score. Methods: This study was conducted in a period of one year from April 2016 to February 2018 at Square Hospital Limited, Panthapath, Dhaka Bangladesh. 50 women were given epidural analgesia as a technique to relieve pains during labour, and other 50 women were put in group serving as a control. Key areas of interest during the study were; the duration of active first and second stage(s), The APGAR score, the mode of delivery, reaction after giving epidural analgesia, and Mother’s satisfaction rate. Results: There was no huge difference in the two groups in regard to deliveries as a result of operation; control group stood at 8%, while study group was at 6%. There was also comparable need of oxytocin. The study also observed no life threatening side effect with very good rating of satisfaction in regard to relieving pains. The study credits Epidural analgesia is for high rate normal delivery and a small percentage of lower segment caesarean option.