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Epidural Indications in Pregnancy, Birth & C Section


Epidural analgesia is indicated in difficult or high-risk labour:

    Pain control
    Prolonged labour
    Occipito-posterior position
    Breech
    Twin pregnancy
    Control of high blood pressure in Pre-eclampsia
    Operative Vaginal Delivery i.e. Forceps
    Repair of perineal and vaginal tears or episiotomy
    Manual removalof placenta 'the after-birth'
    Caesarean section

C. Section performed under epidural or spinal block is associated with a lower maternal mortality owing to anaesthetic factors than under general anaesthetic.

Low concentration local anaesthetics, opioids, or combinations of both are effective in the control of postoperative caesarean pain.

Epidural analgesia allows earlier mobilization, reduces the risk of deep venous thrombosis, and allows better breathing effort, preventing chest infections.