Epidural Analgesia and Breastfeeding
Author Information
Author(s): Torvaldsen Siranda, Roberts Christine L, Simpson Judy M, Thompson Jane F, Ellwood David A
Primary Institution: The University of Sydney
Hypothesis
Is there an association between epidural analgesia during childbirth and breastfeeding outcomes in the first 24 weeks postpartum?
Conclusion
Women who had epidurals were less likely to fully breastfeed their infants shortly after birth and more likely to stop breastfeeding within 24 weeks.
Supporting Evidence
- 93% of women were either fully or partially breastfeeding in the first week postpartum.
- 60% of women continued to breastfeed at 24 weeks.
- Women with epidurals were more likely to stop breastfeeding than those using non-pharmacological methods.
Takeaway
If moms get an epidural during childbirth, they might have a harder time breastfeeding their babies later on.
Methodology
A prospective cohort study of 1280 women who gave birth in the Australian Capital Territory, with breastfeeding data collected at 1, 8, 16, and 24 weeks postpartum.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors related to personal choice of analgesia were not fully controlled.
Limitations
The study did not account for all possible reasons for breastfeeding cessation and lacked information on the dosage or timing of analgesic agents.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 16 years and older who gave birth to a single live infant.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.53, 2.67
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website