Trends in Labour Pain Relief in Scotland (1986-2001)
Author Information
Author(s): Bhattacharya Sohinee, Wang Tao, Knox Fiona
Primary Institution: University of Aberdeen
Hypothesis
The study aimed to analyze the trends and associations of different types of labour analgesia used by women in the Grampian region of Scotland.
Conclusion
Non-epidural analgesia was the most popular choice for pain relief in labour in the Grampian region between 1986 and 2001, although an increase in the uptake of epidural services is starting to occur.
Supporting Evidence
- 15.5% of women used epidural analgesia, while 41.5% used opioids.
- Women receiving epidural analgesia were more likely to have pregnancy-related complications.
- Labour was more likely to be induced in women receiving epidural analgesia.
Takeaway
Most women in Scotland chose non-epidural pain relief during childbirth from 1986 to 2001, but more are starting to use epidurals now.
Methodology
The study analyzed retrospective data from the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank for deliveries from 1986 to 2001, comparing the use of epidural, opioid, and no analgesia.
Potential Biases
The dataset may be subject to selection bias as women with high-risk pregnancies were likely recommended epidural analgesia.
Limitations
The study could not analyze disaggregated data on the use of Entonox and no analgesia, which may limit the understanding of certain outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Women receiving epidural analgesia were generally younger, shorter, and heavier, with a higher incidence of pregnancy-related complications.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0005
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.01, 1.08
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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