Podcasts Kids & Family Parenting Evidence Based Birth® EBB 320 - Evidence on the Impact of Epidurals on the Pushing Phase of Labor

EBB 320 - Evidence on the Impact of Epidurals on the Pushing Phase of Labor

Published: July 24, 2024, 8 a.m.

The impact of epidurals on the second stage of labor has sparked a lot of discussion. Research suggests that epidurals can prolong this stage... and a prolonged second stage can be associated with increased risks of infection, severe tears and the need for interventions like forceps-assisted delivery or Cesarean. But does an epidural mean that you are higher risk for complications during the second stage of labor, or are there ways to lessen your risks? \xa0 In this episode, Dr. Dekker explores the physiological effects of epidurals (and how they impact your body's birthing reflexes), the correlation between epidurals and the duration of the second stage of labor, and nuanced perspectives from professional guidelines worldwide\u2014 including a brief discussion of "laboring down" (aka delayed pushing). \xa0 References:

  • To access all the scientific references that go along with this episode, visit our blog article\xa0here.
  • Access the rest of our EBB Pain Management series go to\xa0this page\xa0and click on \u201cPain Management Series.\u201d
  • Check out the EBB Pocket Guide to Comfort Measures\xa0here.
  • Find an EBB Childbirth Class near you\xa0here.

For more information about Evidence Based Birth\xae and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our\xa0Professional membership\xa0(scholarship options available)\xa0and get on the wait list for our EBB\xa0Instructor program.\xa0Find an\xa0EBB Instructor\xa0here, and click\xa0here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.