Cervical dilation at the time of epidural catheter insertion is not associated with the degree of prolongation of the first or second stages of labor, or the rate of instrumental vaginal delivery

ConclusionsEpidural analgesia prolonged the first and second stages of labor vs. no epidural. Having EA was associated with a higher instrumental delivery rate but not with higher rates of maternal or neonatal complications, in primi ‐ and multiparas. Importantly, thetiming of EA, vis ‐à‐vis cervical dilation, was not associated with substantial changes in the duration of labor stages or the instrumental delivery rate. Thus, EA may be offered early in the first stage of labor.

Source: Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica - February 8, 2020 Category: OBGYN Authors: Michal Lipschuetz, Eshel A. Nir, Sarah M. Cohen, Joshua Guedalia, Hila Hochler, Hagai Amsalem, Gilad Karavani, Drorith Hochner ‐Celnikier, Ron Unger, Simcha Yagel Tags: ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research