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.