Excerpt from: "The Labor Dispute: Epidural or Natural Childbirth?" -  by Daphne R. Howland ... interesting to read

http://www.beliefnet.com/healthandhealing/getcontent.aspx?cid=14686&WT.mc_id=NL44

The Case Against Epidurals

Epidurals aren't without their own consequences and controversies. In rare cases, complications occur due to incorrect administration of the drug. Also rare are side effects like serious headache or drop in blood pressure. As with any form of medication, there is the risk of an allergic reaction to the medication.

Studies have shown that the use of epidurals may lead to longer labor, fever in the mother, or an increased use of forceps to assist with delivery. Researchers are also grappling with whether epidural use leads to increased rate of Cesarean section. One recent meta-study concluded there is no connection. But a critique of that analysis by Ellice Lieberman, MD, DrPH, a scientist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, says that it's too close to call.

"I think there is conflicting data out there. My feeling is we don't have the answer to the C-section question," Lieberman says.

-Rachel Z