Breastfeeding and Epidurals

For a long time it has been said by professionals who worked with moms and new babies that epidurals have a relationship to a lack of breastfeeding or, at the least, a poor start. A study came out saying that epidurals appear to cause moms to quit breastfeeding sooner. These moms are also less likley to breastfeed fully during the first few days. Though, this is not really big news, as I said, we've been saying this and studying this for years.

The big question is whether it is the medication, as this current research believes, or is it the added intervention that are possible with an epidural, like a cesarean, which makes breastfeeding more of a challenge. Though we know from other studies that previous positive breastfeeding experiences don't really play a part in it.

Related:

• Epidurals for Labor
• Choices That Effect Breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding Quiz
• Breastfeeding Class

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