Breastfeeding and epidural analgesia during labour

Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2009 Jun;22(3):327-9. doi: 10.1097/ACO.0b013e32832a1d1b.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To evaluate the effect of epidural analgesia on breastfeeding.

Recent findings: Alarming messages were sent out following a retrospective study indicating that epidural analgesia caused more breastfeeding failures. The limitations of this study were reviewed as well as the critical importance of good lactation support.

Summary: There is no good evidence that epidural analgesia causes reduced breastfeeding success. Good lactation support is critical.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analgesia, Epidural / adverse effects*
  • Analgesia, Obstetrical / adverse effects*
  • Breast Feeding*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Lactation / physiology
  • Nerve Block
  • Pregnancy
  • Young Adult