Effect of intrapartum epidural analgesia on emergency delivery rates for fetal compromise: nationwide retrospective cohort study.

Intrapartum epidural analgesia is associated with a higher risk of an emergency delivery for fetal compromise compared to no analgesia and alternative analgesia, after adjusting for relevant confounding variables. Highest rates were observed in the lowest birth weight centiles. The relative risks after epidural analgesia were modestly but consistently modified by birth weight centile, supporting the assertion that the adverse effects of epidural analgesia are aggravated by reduced placental function. The merits of epidural analgesia for pain management during labor in women requiring it are unquestioned. However, alternative forms of pain relief may be preferable in some cases, particularly in pregnancies with a high background risk of fetal compromise. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.