A survey on perception of epidural in labouring women | [Pakistan Journal of Medical and Health Sciences • 2020]

Author(s):

1. ALMAS IQBAL: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Shalamar Hospital,Lahore, Pakistan

2. HUMA SALEEM: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Shalamar Hospital,Lahore,Pakistan

3. NOSHIN AKRAM: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Shalamar Hospital,Lahore, Pakistan

4. AAMIR WASIM: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Shalamar Hospital,Lahore,Pakistan

Abstract:

Background: Labour pain is rated as amongst the most painful experiences. Labour epidural is an effective pain relief method which is widely used in western countries. Women in our country are gradually becoming more aware of this pain relief option however, it is still not as widespread as one would expect given severity of pain and epidurals' effectiveness. Aim: To find out perception (awareness, desirability and fear or concerns) regarding use of epidural for labourpains. Method: Sixty women admitted to labour ward in active labour and also willing to take part in this study were surveyed (with a structured questionnaire). The questions were directed to find out about awareness, desirability of epidural and their fear or concerns. Result: Almost all women rate pain of childbirth as severe, and 86% of women are aware of epidural for pain relief. However 53.3% still are undecided about the desirability of epidural, with upto one fifth requiring more information to make an informed decision. Another important factor that influences their decision is source of information. Conclusion: There is a need for more awareness about epidural as pain relief method and also its risks and benefits. Healthcare professionals should disseminate evidence based information to allay their anxiety and to dispel myths.

Page(s): 16-19

DOI: DOI not available

Published: Journal: Pakistan Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, Volume: 14, Issue: 1, Year: 2020

Keywords:

Epidural anesthesia , labour pain , childbirth

References:

References are not available for this document.

Citations

Citations are not available for this document.

Citations

Downloads

Views