Epidurals are among the most popular forms of medication used for labor pain today. Although epidurals have a good reputation for being able to effectively remove pain, the pain relief may come at a high price. Is it fact that epidurals can increase the mother's chance of having a cesarean? What do parents need to know about the latest research on epidurals increasing the cesarean rate?

Studies Show More Epidurals in Hospitals May Not Lead to More Cesareans

A recent study in Italy looked at the epidural rate over a three year period from 2005-2007. Results showed that the epidural rate in the eight largest hospitals increased from 18% in 2005, 22% in 2006 and 24.9% in 2007. The epidural rate also increased significantly in smaller hospitals. Yet researchers found that cesarean rate remained the same.

Another large Swedish study showed in that birth settings where the epidural rate was lowest (20-29%) versus the settings where the epidural rate was highest (60-64%), the rate of cesarean among first-time mothers was consistent at 9%.

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