Epidural vs. Dural Puncture Epidural in Labor Analgesia

Launched by MEDIPOL UNIVERSITY · Feb 23, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at two different methods of providing pain relief during labor: the standard epidural and a newer approach called dural puncture epidural (DPE). The goal is to see which method works better for managing pain, ensuring mothers feel comfortable while delivering their babies. The study will measure how well each technique helps reduce pain and will also look at other important factors, such as changes in the mother’s and baby's heart rates, any side effects, and how satisfied the mothers are with their pain relief.

To participate in this trial, women must be first-time mothers (nulliparous) who are at least 36 weeks pregnant and in active labor with their cervix dilated no more than 5 centimeters. They should be planning for a pain-free vaginal birth and must agree to take part in the study by giving written consent. Certain health issues or complications in the pregnancy may prevent women from joining. Participants can expect to receive either the standard epidural or the DPE technique and will be closely monitored throughout labor to ensure their safety and comfort.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Nulliparous women
• • Gestational age of ≥36 weeks with vertex presentation
• • In active labor with cervical dilation ≤5 cm
• • Electing for a pain-free vaginal delivery with one of the two epidural analgesia methods
• • Provision of written informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of pregnancy-related diseases (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes)
• • Contraindications to neuraxial block
• • Risk factors for cesarean delivery (e.g., uterine anomalies, previous surgeries, morbid obesity)
• • Known fetal anomalies