Epidural affects breastfeeding

Women who have painrelieving epidurals during childbirth have more difficulty breast-feeding and are twice as likely to give up within six months than those who give birth naturally, researchers say. Up to 40 per cent of British women are routinely given epidurals during childbirth, involving a catheter being inserted into the spine to allow the infusion of pain-killing drugs. These deaden the nerves that relay sensation from the lower body and legs.

I was particularly interested in this story, as I had an epidural when James was born. It lead into a full spinal block and caesarian section but I did find it very hard to breastfeed, as James did seem a little sleepy, but was this just him or did all the spinal drugs have an affect. I know mum's that have c-sections find it hard to get the milk flowing, and it can take up to 5 days. I personally did have fun and games getting James established, but we did perservere and we were quite successful in the end.

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Your Comments

Had 3 epidurals during labour as they kept failing. Eventually had a full spinal block and C-Section. Had no problems breastfeeding successfully for 6mths and only stopped as she was then on solids.

Rebecca

I HAVE HAD TWO CHILDREN,BOTH TIMES WITH EPIDURAL DUE TO EMERGENCY C SECTIONS AND BREAST FEED BOTH OF THEM FOR A YEAR EACH WITH NO PROBLEMS.iNFACT I WAS SAD TO STOP BUT ENJOYED EVERY MINUTE.

Mrs Barnes of PETERBOROUGH