the Effects of Epidural Fentanyl on Vaginal Delivery

The Effects of Fentanyl Added to Ropivacaine for Labour Epidural Analgesia on the Progress, Duration or Mode of Delivery: a Randomized, Double Blind Study.

The study hypothesis was that epidural fentanyl may accelerate the dilation of the cervix and possibly result in a shorter duration of vaginal delivery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status I or II
• nulliparous
• normal singleton uncomplicated pregnancies of more than 38 weeks
• cephalic presentation of the fetus
• anticipated vaginal delivery
• active stage of labour
• cervical dilatation between 3-5 cm
• regular uterine contractions
• normal cardiotocographic recordings.

Exclusion Criteria:

• medical problems during pregnancy
• BMI≥40 kg m-2
• opioid allergy
• prior administration of opioids or other analgesics