Unwanted effects of epidural anaesthesia for pain relief in labor at the National Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abstract

This study aims to describe unwanted effects of epidural anaesthesia for pain relief in labor at the National Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 619 women who were usually relieved of labor pain by epidural anaesthesia from 1/2023 to 3/2023 in the National Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The results show that pregnant women applying this method are monitored, cared for, detected early, and promptly dealt with unwanted effects during labor and 24 hours after delivery. Low-rate unwanted effects like Tremors: 5.3% and 8.9%; Itchy rash: 1.5% and 5%; Vomiting: 2.6% and 6.5%; Urinary retention: 0.2% and 13.9%; Headache:1% and 3.4%; Back pain: 7.1%, and 12.6%; Hematoma after needle puncture: 0.2% and 0.5%. Therefore, undesirable effects of epidural analgesia in labor have low rates, early detection, and timely treatment, ensuring safety for women during labor and postpartum.