Alternative to epidural recommended for women in labour

Alternative to epidural recommended for women in labour Women in labour should be offered an alternative to an epidural spinal block injection, say new draft guidelines for the NHS.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is recommending remifentanil, which is a fast-acting morphine-like drug given into a vein.

Women control the medication themselves, by pressing a button to get more of the drug for pain relief.

A timer ensures the user cannot administer too much of it. BBC News

See also:

• Intrapartum care for healthy women and babies (update) Guideline in development [GID-NG10360] NICE
• All mums-to-be with a BMI over 25 will be warned of extra risks they face in pregnancy under new health guidelines The Daily Mail
• New drug will deliver pain relief to women in labour who don't want an epidural The Daily Mail