Epidural During Labor Drops Risk of Severe Complications by 35%

The study authors found that getting an epidural was associated with a 35% decreased risk reduction in severe complications.

Experts say epidurals aren’t just about relieving pain, they can help lower the danger of high-risk pregnancies.

“Based on my experience and the study mentioned, I do believe that an epidural, when suitable, is a safe and beneficial option for pain relief during labor,” said Matthew Casavant, MD, the founding physician of South Lake Obstetrics & Gynecology. “Epidurals not only help manage pain effectively but can also reduce severe maternal morbidity (SMM) by lowering the physical strain on the mother, which is crucial for high-risk pregnancies.”

“The benefits of pain management extend beyond comfort—they can directly impact maternal and neonatal outcomes,” Cassavant stated. “For example, I’ve observed that mothers who have had epidurals often experience reduced instances of high blood pressure spikes and less physical stress, which can decrease the likelihood of complications like pre-eclampsia.”

Tina Hendrick, MD, board-certified OBGYN points out that epidurals affect the muscles themselves.

“Epidurals have quite a few benefits, including pain relief, relaxing muscles in the pelvis to allow a baby to descend, and affording rest to mothers during labor. I personally have had epidurals with both of my children and had great experiences,” Hendrick stated.

Although the study shows the benefits of an epidural – particularly for patients with severe maternal morbidity – not everyone is a candidate for the procedure.

“As an underlying, neuraxial anesthesia – referring to epidurals – have been touted as a safe procedure for carefully selected patients. Patients, for example, who have an underlying bleeding diathesis are generally not candidates for the procedure,” Gaither explained.