Epidural analgesia is a widely available method of pain relief in labour in
Western countries. This article analyses the various adverse outcomes
of labour and birth after the administration of epidural analgesia. A
literature review found that the use of intrapartum epidural analgesia
for women with low-risk pregnancy has not only disempowered women
but can also lead to maternal and fetal morbidity connected with major
obstetric interventions, such as operative deliveries. Epidural analgesia
also interferes with breastfeeding success and effective oxytocin
circulation in the maternal blood-stream, and may even impact on
childhood behavioural development.